Brazil is experiencing a true popularization of street races. In 2024, more than 2,800 events were held across the country, a 29% higher rate than recorded in 2023, according to a survey by the Brazilian Association of Street Racing Organizers and Outdoor Sports. The popularization of sport reinforces the interest in healthier and more affordable life habits, but also raises doubts about who can practice the sport and what care is needed.

Dr. Nemi Sabeh Júnior, orthopedist and traumatologist accredited by omint, a health insurance company and insurance, lights a warning: although the act of running is natural to the human body, it is not an activity suitable for anyone. “There are individual limitations, such as serious orthopedic diseases, more advanced or arthrosis articulary wear that prevent adequate mobility,” he explains.

Physical and emotional benefits of race

Initially, medical evaluation is critical. If there are no contraindications, the race is a sport that brings several benefits to physical health and even mental. Activity increases “hormones of happiness”, such as serotonin and Dopamineproviding a sense of well-being. “There are cases where the corridor even cries after an intense race, as there are numerous hormones and emotions released,” says Dr. Nemi Sabeh Júnior.

In the physical aspect, the race brings several benefits, such as the improvement of conditioningweight control and body balance, as well as positively impact the cardiovascular system. “During this kind of effort, the body uses fat as a source of energy in combination with oxygen, which expands oxygenation of the body. Even without the heart it reaches a very high frequency, it is possible to ensure good circulation in the arteries. This process enhances conditioning, which is the ability to maintain breathtaking activities efficiently,” explains the expert.

Care before you start running

Anyone who wants to start running should take some precautions. According to the orthopedist, starting practice without adequate physical preparation can be harmful. The activity requires prior muscle strengthening, especially the abdomen and upper limbs muscles, since the strength of these segments of the body helps in the power exerted by lower limbs.

Care recommended before starting the race are laboratory tests and an orthopedic evaluation. “It is worth checking the mobility of the ankle, hip and knee, as well as measuring the strength of the lower limbs and the muscle balance, as today there are specific devices for this analysis,” says the doctor.

If done without follow -up, the race can aggravate existing pain in the knee or spine. Therefore, it is recommended to rely on professional guidance and attention to any signs of overload. “When there is a lack of preparation, it is common to present knee painon the foot or other parts of the body. However, all this can be avoided with proper medical follow -up ”, reinforces Dr. Nemi Sabeh Júnior.

By Thais Cruz