Confession: I’m guilty of skipping out on stretching after I run. And I’m not doing myself any favors: Stretching can alleviate tension (I notice my shoulders gradually rise up toward my ears when I become fatigued) and prevent injury.
I’m trying to become a smarter runner as I train for my 20th marathon, this fall. My training plan calls for weekly strength sessions, so I’ve added yoga to my routine. Not only has yoga helped me become more flexible and balanced but it’s also made me a stronger runner.
You too can become a better runner—and stop skimping on stretching—by leaning into these three poses post-workout. Remember to breathe.
- Pose 1, Reclining Pigeon: This pose stretches your IT band, the connective tissue along your outer thigh, from your hip to shin.
- Pose 2, Tree: I didn’t realize how weak my balance was until I did PT for piriformis pain. This pose helps strengthen calves, ankles, thighs, spine, and stretches your groin, thighs, hips, and shoulders. It’s great in for relieving sciatic pain.
- Pose 3, 90/90 Lunge or Crescent Lunge: Crescent Lunge stretches the legs, groin, and hip flexors, while also opening the front torso, chest, and shoulders. It strengthens and tones the thighs, hips, and butt, while the balancing aspect helps to develop flexible stability.
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These yoga-inspired stretches help me relieve tension and prevent injury.
Amanda Furrer, Editor, Running Reviews, studied journalism at NYU and writing at Emerson College. She has reviewed gear and covered other topics in the running space for almost 10 years. Since 2013, she has consecutively run the Boston Marathon. She also has a master’s degree in gastronomy from Boston University and was formerly a professional baker for two years before hanging up her apron.
