Running Stretches Custom Search Performing running stretches is necessary to optimal performance and injury reduction. Stretching your muscles regularly helps them recover sooner. You'll also feel less achy as when you don't stretch. Stretching, however, is not without controversy. Many people don't know when or if it's necessary to do in the first place. Generally, stretching your muscles after you've warmed up is very useful. As a runner you demand a lot of your body. It's only reasonable to reward your muscles with proper stretching to relieve them (and you!) of the soreness that follows. When you do stretch don't bounce. Take your time and don't strain beyond the point where you feel pain. Stretching should feel good not painful. You can do light stretching after a five minute warm up. But the running stretches listed below are best when done at the end of your workout for a more thorough stretch. Calf Stretch - Wall Lean Your calves will feel tight after a run. To relieve this, find a wall and push up against it with your heels on the ground. Put one leg straight behind you and the other bent in front or lean forward with your hips stretching the calf muscle. Quadricep Stretch Stand against a wall sideways for support and grab the ankle of the opposite foot with your hand. Pull your ankle toward your buttocks. Hold it there and keep the knee pointing down and then release. Do the other leg. Hip Flexor Stretch The hips play an important role in running. Without proper stretching you can pull a muscle and be out the game recovering. So while standing, take a step forward with your left foot (do not let your knee go over your foot) while your right leg stays almost straight out behind you (the knee should be slightly bent). Press forward with your hips, hold and then do the other leg. Hamstring Stretch It can be fairly easy to pull your hamstring while running or jogging so be sure you give this muscle a good stretch. While standing on your feet, one foot crossed over the other, bend over trying to reach your toes. You don't have to reach your toes; just do what feels comfortable and allows you to feel the stretch in the backs of your thighs. Stretching is an important part of a running workout. You'll reduce the likelihood of injury, enjoy a faster recovery and improved performance by giving your muscles the stretching they need. Massage therapy offers terrific benefits for your body, mind and soul. And, it's a great routine to incorporate with running stretches to relax your muscles. Running Stretches Back to Jogging101.com |
