Stretching Before Running

Runners need to take the time to stretch both before and after runs. Stretching before running helps to increase muscle flexibility and prevent muscles from cramping up during the run. Here are some of the best running stretches that will help avert injuries and enable you to run to the best of your ability.

• Calf Stretch
  This is a good stretch for dealing with calf, achilles tendonitis, or plantar fasciitis pain.

• Shin and Quadricep Strech
  A good stretch to loosen both the shin and the quad muscles.

• Piriformis Stretches
  Includes two good stretches for the piriformis and glute (butt muscles).

• Hamstring Stretches
  Here are two good stretches for the hamstring. When stretching before running, the hamstring is the muscle on which I focus the most.

• IT-Band Stretch
  A good stretch for loosening the IT-Band.

• Hip Flexor/Psoas Stretch
  Here is a good stretch to help hip flexor/psoas muscle problems.

• Side Ache Stretch
  A good stretch to combat side ache problems.

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