Stretching - Part One

To become a healthier runner, understanding our basic physiology is essential. Our bodies are equipped with a natural "Flight Or Fight Mechanism", that will empower us to bolt forward into a full gallop in the case of an emergency. This is a protection feature that provides extra strength and speed, to distance our body from harms way... But this is not how you should start your run training, or racing.

Muscles and connective tissues need to warm-up before they are exercised vigorously. Getting blood and oxygen flowing into extremities before running is very important for optimal performance. Stretching will help you to become a stronger, faster runner, while also reducing pain, and increasing your longevity.

The muscles work best when they are warmed up. Stretching increases mobility in the joints and muscles. In turn, the runner is at less risk for an injury when putting those muscles to work.

Before stretching, you may find it helpful to walk for a short distance; anywhere from a quarter mile to a half mile should be sufficient. When you begin each run, start with a walk, progressing into a gentle jog for at least a 100 yards. Then your body will be ready to gradually increase the tempo and the power out-put required for running.

Next week we will talk about specific areas of your body that will benefit from stretching.