This article will be covering the importance of stretching. Most people tend to neglect doing enough of this and think that doing the bare minimum is suffice. Stretching actually is one of the most important aspects and basic fundamental of training to any aspiring runner.

Stretching consistently and for a solid duration will produce overall greater flexibility and range of motion. This will then improve performance with a greater stride length. It is also important for recovery. The more you stretch immediately after a workout, the faster you will recover and the less sore you will feel the next day.

Another benefit of stretching is that it helps to reduce the risk on injuries. Most injuries occur when runners neglect their stretching and develop tight muscles. This leads to injuries such as muscle strains and even tears.

So just remember this, the more time you spend doing you r stretching, the less time you will spend being injured thus promoting more training time, which will see you improving in your performance.

Below are just a few stretches you can do, after your workouts.


Wall Pushup

Stand about three feet from a wall, feet at shoulder width and flat on the ground. Put your hands on the wall with your arms straight for support. Lean your hips forward and bend your knees slightly to stretch your calves.


Heel To Buttock

Stand on one foot, with one hand on a wall for balance. Hold the other foot with the opposite hand and raise the heel of the lifted foot to the buttocks (or as close as comfortably possible), stretching your quadriceps.

Keep your body upright throughout. Change legs and repeat.


Hip & Lower Back Stretch

Sit on the ground with your legs crossed. Lift your right leg and cross it over the left, which should remain bent. Hug the right leg to your chest and twist the trunk of your body to look over your right shoulder.

Change legs and repeat (i.e. looking over your left shoulder).


Groin Stretch

Seated, put the soles of your feet together. With your elbows on the inside of your knees, gradually lean forward and gently press your knees toward the ground.

Article by:
Racers’ Toolbox http://www.racers-toolbox.com