Internal problems while running

Well, I'm sort of glad that there's near a 100% chance of no people I know reading this post, but I figure I might find a solution or two here.

Basically, when I start doing a cardio workout (been running about 10-20 miles a week for the last year), unless I really paid attention to making sure I emptied out thoroughly (#2, not #1), I often have to run to the restroom midway through my run. I do a longer run 3 times a week, with two short runs between those days, and none on weekends. This problem happens every time I run, and it certainly interferes with enough. It was embarrassing enough posting about this, so I'd appreciate some serious tips for anyone who has some advice. And yes, I'm going to consult a physician as well, once I find a decent one.

- Scott

There was a post a while ago concerning this. Perhaps Ozzie can dig up the exchange that ensued, where a few solutions were suggested re: which foods (not) to consume, hiding toilet paper on the course (that's no joke!), etc. Sorry I can't help you more. I don't have this problem.

Hope this helps,

Hi Scott! If you're a coffee drinker try throwing down a cup or two an hour beore your run. That should ensure your stomach to emty before going out on your run..

Good luck!

Hi! I'm your next door neighbor. <g>

You're not the only one this happens to. We even had a name for it in college that I won't say because it's not polite. Maybe some others have some suggestions, but I can at least offer some practical things:

1. When I know I'm going to run, I hit the bathroom immediately and then once before I leave the house.

2. Run places with Porta Potties. They're not as bad as you'd think in winter.

3. If you're doing an X mile workout, drive .5X away from home, park the car, run home, use the bathroom, and run back to the car.

4. Someone else has suggested hiding TP along the way. Leaves work only if you're good at identifying leaves that will cause problems, like poison ivy. Follow the Boy Scout procedure to 'cover your trail.'

5. If you are so embarrassed by this, go read the thread that advises men to not read the thread. I believe this will put things in the proper perspective.

My problem is similar. When a starting gun goes off, I suddenly have to pee. I will continue to feel that way until I reach the finish line, whereupon the feeling will immediately go away. I've actually had some decent PRs as a result....

At least you have the 'runner's shits' and not the 'shit's runs'. Train yourself to have a bm at a certain, convenient, time each day. Then run after it. Eat more high fiber food.

Immodium?

This is known as runners trots round here. We used to run through the back lanes between the fields and dive over the hedge. But another method is to eat pineapple before you go to bed ( last thing for supper) the effect that it has on meats is to break down the structure and make them easy to cook and the same thing seems to apply in that overnight it works on the digestion. Expect to need the loo fast be ready to throw anyone else out of the way.It works really well coupled with a good diet plenty of salad and fibrous foods. Word of caution sometimes it is a double visit so give yourself just a little time after first visit to make sure that all is through. Until you have worked out how it makes your system react. Baby wipes in a plastic bag can be tucked in your shorts and taken home hygienically if all goes wrong.Don't feel bad we are all just people after all) Loads of people I know get this they joke about it. Only to other runners though. Amber

How do you gulp down enough cold air to do what you are suggesting. Wouldn't any cold liquid/food have a similar effect?

Hey, Now you guys imagine dealing with BOTH problems like we girls sometimes have to.