Are we prepared to run? (Part 1)

Whether you are going for a run around the streets, training for something longer like a 10k, half or full marathon, or playing any kind of running-based team sport- we need to ensure that we are adequately preparing our body for the physical demands that are going to be required.

Whilst static stretching still has a role in our repertoire as an athlete, research is now suggesting it is potentially detrimental to performance if completed immediately pre-exercise. It is a fantastic tool post-exercise to kick-off recovery, as it dampens down neurological activity within our neuromuscular system and helps to restore range of motion.

So, if static stretching has potentially a detrimental performance effect how do we brush off the cob-webs, “loosen up” and work on achieving optimal range of motion pre-exercise?

We work on dynamic flexibility, muscle activation through full range of motion. We are able to achieve muscle lengthening whilst also exciting the neuromuscular system, “priming” the system for the high demands about to be placed upon it. Here a few exercises you can try out as part of your preparation:

1. Posterior Chain Walkout