How to Prevent Side Stitches

Side stitches are pains that develop in your side during exercise. The pain is linked to the diaphragm in your body having a spasm. It is believed to be caused due to a decreased amount of blood to the diaphragm or the tugging that occurs during exhalation. You can easily prevent side stitches from occurring during exercise.

Instructions

1. Practice deep breathing. If you breathe shallow while working out, you are likely to have side stitches. Inhale and exhale deeply while you exercise.

2. Keep a steady pace. Pushing yourself too hard can also lead to side stitches. Start slowly and gradually increase the workout's intensity to prevent side stitches.

3. Plan on taking several breaks during your workout. If you exercise for short bursts, then you should prevent side stitches from plaguing you.

4. Give yourself time to digest before exercising. People that eat and then exercise right after are probably going to experience side stitches. Plan to eat at least one to two hours before the start of the workout.

5. Get strong ab muscles. Working your abs consistently can prevent a person from developing side stitches. Add sit-ups and crunches to your daily exercise routine.

Tips & Warnings

• If you do get side stitches, the best way to relieve them is to momentarily stop working out. You can also try massaging the area until they go away.

• Warming up before you begin exercising can be another way to prevent side stitches from occurring. Take some time to completely stretch before any cardio exercise.