Why Do Runners Stretch?

#Ep6: Many runners devote a lot of time to stretching themselves, or going to a therapist to 'get' stretched. In this episode I look at WHY this is the case and HOW MUCH evidence there is for the assumed benefits.

This episode came about in response to some interesting questions put to me following last week's broadcast, and also to feedback I got from a presentation I gave at British Triathletes South East Division yesterday.

Most runners believe that static stretching before & after their run will reduce the risk of injury. many are encouraged to do so by coaches and therapists. It may well come as a suprise to hear that there is actually very little evidence to support this.

And there's more... stretching before a run may actually slow you down, and stretching after a run could increase muscle soreness! If this comes as a shock, you need to listen to this episode. If you enjoy it, do please leave comments and share with your running colleagues!

You may also want to check out last week's broadcast in which we looked at how in the case of certain running pain/injury, stretches commonly handed out can actually DELAY recovery, e.g. insertional achilles tendinopathy, proximal hamstring tendinopathy, insertional gluteal tendinopathy.

It's a world of confusion and misinterpretation, which is exactly why Runchatlive exists: to help dispel the myths and misconceptions that fill the world of running injury and performance.

Want to HELP us? If so, then please share our episodes across social media, especially on Apple Podcasts/iTunes as that really helps us reach new listeners. Thanks in advance and enjoy!

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