Runners know that they should perform running stretches, but that doesn’t mean they do. Even if they take the time to loosen up their muscles, they may not be doing the right stretches or performing them properly.
It doesn’t help that the thinking on running stretches has changed over time. Guidance on the type of stretching has also evolved, with a shift toward dynamic movements instead of the static bend-and-touch-your-toe type of stretch. But many runners are creatures of habit and don’t often adapt routines they’ve developed over time.
It’s never too late though to start stretching properly!
Why are running stretches so important?
Before asking muscles to suddenly increase their activity, it’s important to prepare them. When seated, many of our muscles contract or shorten because of the position. But during running, these muscles are stretched. If the shift from sitting to running is done too quickly, you’re asking for trouble!
Should you stretch before every run?
Yes. Stretching is very important prior to running. However, the generic term “stretching” includes different types of exercises. Ideally, your pre-run warm up should include some dynamic activity that replicates the motions of your workout. This allows the muscles to be slowly stretched in a controlled manner. These can be done either before you start your run, or after five to 10 minutes of a gentle jog.
What is dynamic stretching and why is it better than static stretching before a run?
Static stretching is reaching down to touch your toes, or stretching your arm across your body to stretch your shoulder. Typically, these stretches are held at the point of mild discomfort for at least 30 seconds.
Static stretching though does not have the desired effect. This means that you aren’t preventing injuries, and in fact, there is some evidence that it can actually negatively affect workouts.
Alternatively, dynamic stretching involves performing gentle repetitive motions in a way that gradually increases motion, circulation, and muscle length. Arm swings that start small and gradually increase to become bigger are a good example. When these replicate the activity that you are about to perform, such as running, they allow the muscles to stretch and the blood flow to those areas to be optimised.
The best dynamic running stretches
1. Side lunge
Stand with a wide stance (greater than your hip/shoulder width) but not so wide that you feel a stretch. With both feet pointing forward, bend your left knee, allowing your hips to sit backwards, and shift your weight to over your right foot as you step to the right. As you move, keep your upper body upright and your core engaged. Then return to standing. Repeat this for 10 reps, then switch sides. This targets the hip abductors/adductors, and engages the core stabilizing muscles. Google Images Link.
2. Glute and piriformis activation
Standing straight in a balanced position, shift your weight to your right leg. Lift your left ankle upwards and bring it across your right leg (like sitting cross-legged in a chair). Grasp the left ankle with your hands to feel a stretch. Hold for approximately three seconds, then release the left ankle. Then, do the same thing with your right side. Repeat this, alternating legs over 25 yards at a slow, walking pace. This targets the gluteus and piriformis muscles.Google Images Link.
3. Arm swings
Standing in a stable position, using both arms at once like a windmill, start to swing the whole arm such that it comes up straight in front of you and then around behind you. Start with small circles and gradually allow momentum to build, increasing the size of the arm swing. You may also gradually change the angle of the swing to come more in front of you. Do this for 30 seconds. This stretch targets the muscles of the shoulder, chest, and upper back that are involved with arm-swinging during running.Google Images Link.
4. Bent-knee forward swing
Stand alongside a wall or fence for support. Stand stably on your right leg. Then bend your left knee upwards in front of you to a 90-degree angle. Keeping your hips pointing forward, drive the knee up toward your chest, then extend it straight out behind you. Repeat 10 times then switch legs. This targets the hip flexors.Google Images Link.
5. Straight-leg lateral swing
Stand with a wall or a fence to one side, using it for support. Stand stably on your right leg. Then lift up your left leg to swing it out to the left, then across your body to the right side just in front of your body, using smooth, fluid motion, keeping your hips pointing forward. Repeat 10 times then switch legs. This targets the hip abductors and adductors.Google Images Link.
Should you also do running stretches after your run?
Yes. During exercise, the heart rate rises to deliver oxygen to the muscles. Stretching allows the heart rate to gradually decrease and return to normal. After a vigorous run, muscles will also be full of lactic acid. Stretching helps the blood flow to the muscles to remove the lactic acid, which improves recovery. Stretching after a run helps to relax any muscles that may have gotten tight from exertion, and this can help to prevent pain and stiffness later.
I hope this post has provided food for thought and you’ll look to mix up your running stretching routine.
For further reading, see my other posts on How can I prevent getting a running injury? and Strength exercises for runners 😎
