Running Tips: Flexibility
Posted on Feb 10, 2016
Posted in: Running Tips
Running Tips: Flexibility
There are MANY opinions on flexibility these days: dynamic stretching, PNF stretching, yoga, static stretching, the list goes on. Although the latest research flip flopped for many years on whether stretching was beneficial, now the experts agree that the right kind of stretching can be good for some athletes. This study found that people who performed static stretches followed by several minutes of basic warm-up movement, such as light jogging, were significantly less likely to strain or tear a muscle. And stretching after your workout is good for everyone.
Stretching works best when you are warmed up a little. Stretch your problem areas after a brief warm up, again after you run and periodically throughout the day. Some people prefer to stretch all leg muscles after every run. There is no right answer. Do what works for you.
Here are some examples of static stretches for your legs:
I recommend holding each stretch for at least 30 seconds. Do 2-3 repetitions.
Happy stretching!