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In case you missed it, SPEAR was included in today’s AM New York running insert, “Run This City.” Featured below is Dan’s editorial on the most essential component to any runner’s routine.
Question: What is an essential element of any runner’s routine?
Answer: Stretching.
Our bodies are naturally designed like well-engineered cars. While we need to fuel our engines with proper nutrition, we also need to make sure that our wheels are properly aligned and rotating on the correct axis.If the wheels of a car are misaligned or poorly balanced, the car veers to one side and wears out its tires unevenly.
A similar phenomenon occurs with your muscles and joints if your hip and lower leg flexibility is not balanced. Poor flexibility can tax your system, force your muscles to work harder and less efficiently, and can alter your running mechanics – all increasing your risk of injury.
Tight hamstrings can cause a runner to suffer from back pain and tight Achilles tendons can lead to altered knee mechanics changing the kinetic chain and your running gait.
Prior to running, we recommend a dynamic warm-up consisting of movements that enhance joint and muscle range of motion. Dynamic stretching warms up the muscles, increases blood flow and delivers oxygen to the muscles (like warming up your engine).
Examples are high knees, walking lunges, and standing leg swings. Static stretching can be performed before or after running, and are held for 30 seconds to enhance muscle length and flexibility.
