Essential Run Cool Down Stretches

I love getting a good stretch in after running, not just because it feels so good but also because it’s good for you. I’ve written a blog post previously about eight great post-race stretches, but that was seven years ago so it was time for an update!

A lot of people also search for useful running tips on Youtube, so as a companion piece to my running warm-up vlog from the end of last year I’ve edited together essential post-run cool down stretches you can do anywhere!

Personal preference, but I don’t like sitting on the ground to stretch unless I have a mat or towel. The problem is after a run I don’t often bring a mat or towel with me. So these cool down stretches I present have no seated or prone positions.

I usually stretch from the head down to my toes, so here’s a quick rundown of the stretches I show:

  • Neck – because we hold our head in a fixed position while running (to avoid getting dizzy from all the motion!), we can build up a lot of tension in the neck area by the time we’ve finished.
  • Shoulder, Chest, & Back – an efficient use of the arm swing is part of good running form, so stretching out the shoulders, chest, and back should keep these involved body parts from tightening up.
  • Side (Lateral) – the lateral muscles of your body help keep you upright when running, so reach up and out and give them some lovin’.
  • Twisting Lunge – a dual-purpose stretch will release tension in your back and help lengthen out your hip flexors.
  • Quadriceps – stretch out the largest muscle involved in running.
  • Hamstrings – lengthen the muscle that partners with the quads to power your run stride.
  • Figure Four – targets hip area and glutes.
  • Deep Squat – releases hips, lower back, and calf area.
  • Calf – these muscles provide the spring in your step, so take care of them and stretch them out.

Watch my Essential Run Cool Down Stretches vlog below.

 

 

About Noelle De Guzman

Noelle De Guzman is a freelance writer and recreational athlete with over 12 years of experience in fitness and endurance sport. She believes sport and an active healthy lifestyle changes lives.

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