Stretching Before Running

Importance of Stretching Before Running
There are many benefits of stretching before running and jogging. The important benefits is that it decreases the chances of pulling or straining muscles. Muscle pull is very commonly seen in runners, who do not stretch at all or properly before running. It is most certainly not a very pleasant experience, it is in fact a painful experience.

As a matter of fact, it is seen that stretching decreases the chances of injury caused by running to a large extent. If you have lately taken to running, or if you are on the running track after a hiatus, your muscles will not be used to working that hard. When the muscles are stretched, they become warm and they do not get strained either. You may want to know about stretching exercises for seniors.

Stretching exercises before running is also helpful in taking longer strides, hence in improving the speed, as more muscles get involved in the activity. The other important benefits of stretches before running is that they help in slightly lengthening the muscles. The muscles of the body can be compared to a rubber band. In a stretch, hold the position till you can no longer hold. Remember it is important to stretch slow and longer. Hold in the stretch position at least 10 to 15 seconds, which will help you to become flexible.

Stretching Before Running
You should not excessively stretch before running, as your muscles are not warm. All you need to do is just a couple of easy stretches before you begin running. It is like a warning signal to the body, that you will start running now. Make sure you do not stretch towards your best limit, also remember do not stretch till you feel the pain before running.

You can stretch yourself well after about 5 to 7 minutes of running. By this time, your muscles would have become warmer and you will be able to stretch relatively easier, but you would not want to stretch till it is painful. At this stage also, stretching should be gentle. On the other hand, if you stretch after running, you will notice that it is relatively easier to stretch, than the previous two times. You may also choose to stretch at different times of the day as well. For more information on stretching exercises and techniques.

Stretches Before Running
If you have tried to look for stretches before running, you would have come across a number of stretches, which can help you to loosen your muscles. There are many authors, who have written a number of book on stretches before running. Before we see some stretching exercises before running, I would like to mention that these can also be done during the running schedule or also after running.