How to Stretch Before Running

Last updated 3 months ago

As soon as you get your running shoes laced up, it's time to prepare to run. You can't just take off like a flash—you have to stretch before you can get going. Here are some tips for stretching before running:

Stretch thoroughly and carefully. Stretching is as important to your run as your running shoes are. Remember not to stretch until your muscles hurt, or to stretch past muscle resistance.
Perform leg stretches. These include hamstring, calf, quadriceps, and buttock stretches. A groin stretch is also beneficial for legs. Most leg stretches can be done without many accessories, but some require a wall or stable surface to lean your hands on, while others, like some hamstring stretches, require a towel to properly perform the stretch.
Remember to warm up your arms. Working your arm muscles, like your triceps and biceps, will also help warm up your shoulders and upper back muscles. Many leg stretches can also incorporate upper body stretches to target more than one muscle group at a time.
Incorporate torso stretches. Torso stretches are important because they help the core of your body get loose so it can help you maintain proper running posture. Bridge stretches and others that work your hips and pelvic area are great for the muscles of your torso.
Gently roll your neck from side to side, flex your fingers and toes, rotate your ankles, wrists, and shoulders, and do some knee bends to prepare for your run. By the time you have stretched all your major muscle groups and done some flexibility exercises, you'll be ready to run!

Come to Potomac River Running for running shoes and accessories in Washington DC, Vienna, Arlington, and Rockville, VA. We have what you need to get the most out of your running experience. Call us at (703) 689-0999 to find out more.