Stretches for Runners
Stretching is an important part of Running because it makes your body flexible enough for activity which consequently reduces the probability of injuring yourself. While it is not as exciting as Running itself (which is probably why not many do it), stretching is important if you want a pain-free run and a longer career if you’re really into the activity.
Here are some stretching exercises which are beneficial to runners:
Hang Ten
This stretching exercise is used to stretch your hamstrings (the muscles at the back portion of your thighs) as well as to loosen the muscles on your lower back.
You do this by bending over and trying to reach your toes with your fingers. Remember to relax your neck muscles as you do this.
The Flamingo
This is another common stretch but this time it stretches your quadriceps.
This is done by pulling one lower leg to your buttocks while the other leg tries to keep your balance. If you can’t hold your balance on your own, hold on to an object like a wall or the railings on a staircase.
Groin Stretch
As its name suggests, this one stretches your groin. You do this by sitting down on the floor and putting the soles of your feet together. Rest your elbows on the inside of your knees and slowly bend forward. As you do that, press your knees to the ground with your elbows.
Hamstring & Lower Back Stretch
This stretch helps prevent the bane of a runner’s career which is the bad back. To start off, sit on the floor with your legs crossed. Then, lift your right leg and put it over your left leg which remains resting on the floor. After you do this, twist your trunk to the right while holding on to your right knee with your left hand. Repeat this stretch on the other side of your body.
Triceps & Shoulder Stretch
This stretch is done by grabbing your elbow with your opposite hand and pushing it up until you feel it stretch. After doing this with one side of your body, do it on the other side.
What we put up here are just some of the basic and most common stretches that runners do before and after Running. A word of caution, though - do not try to stretch parts of your body too much as it can cause injury instead of preventing it. Remember that when Stretching becomes painful, you are overdoing it.
|
|
|
|
|
Basics & Backgrounds
Home
Print Article
Email Article
Comment on Article
Write New Article
Search Articles
