A side stitch strikes, a sudden pain, Just below the ribs, sharp as rain. When running fast or working hard, It grips the side, it leaves a scarred.
The diaphragm, strained and tight, From heavy breaths in mid-flight, Irritated, it cramps and burns, With each deep breath, the ache returns.
Blood flow wanes, the muscles fight, To keep the rhythm steady, right. Improper breaths, shallow and weak, Bring this sharp pain that many seek.
A meal too large before the race, Can also slow the body’s pace. A lesson learned with every stride, To keep the stitch from one’s side.
To ward it off, warm-up with care, Breathe deep, let oxygen fill the air. Avoid large meals, time them right, And you will keep your run in sight.
If pain strikes hard, slow down, don't rush, Bend forward, breathe, press with a hush. It fades with time, as aches subside, A brief discomfort, nothing to hide.
Though sharp, it’s fleeting, soon it’s done, You’ll be back, your body will run. For side stitches, though they come and go, Are just small bumps in the flow.
