Experts Suggest Stretching Before Running

Experts Suggest Stretching Before Running

Stretching Your FeetAccording to the Bangkok Post, many runners underestimate the importance of stretching before a race or a jog. Those who don’t stretch their muscles and warm-up adequately face an increased risk of sustaining an Achilles tendon injury and other painful complications.

“To reduce the chance of injury, runners should stretch every day — even on rest days,” said Dr. Pornthep Mamanee, a specialist from the Bangkok Academy of Sports and Exercise Medicine. “Make sure you stretch your muscles thoroughly and do it right.” Dr. Mamanee also recommends changing footwear after ever 500 km or so that one runs.

Stretching the feet can make you much more resistant to podiatric injuries. For help understanding the benefits of stretching the feet, visit a podiatrist like Dr. Michael Wynn of Foot Care Associates of Texas. Dr. Wynn will teach you basic techniques and explain how they benefit your overall health.

Stretching Your Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Good ways to stretch your feet are:

  • Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
  • Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
  • Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact our office in Kingwood, TX. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technologies to give you the best care options available.

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