Scottdale Rehabilitation & Wellness Center is Keeping You Healthy
We’re blogging about three hamstring stretches for runners, courtesy of Scottdale Rehabilitation & Wellness Center in Scottdale, PA. Whenever you work out, you know the importance of stretching. That includes making sure your hamstrings are ready to handle the wear and tear of your run. Tight hamstrings can create more trouble than you realize. Here are some great stretches you can do for your hamstrings, courtesy of Runners Blueprint.
Start with Lying Hamstring Stretch with Cord
You start this stretch by lying on your back straight and legs extended. Keep your lower back down on the floor and hips level. Bend your right knee towards your chest. Make sure you slowly set your knee straight while reach for the back of your legs. Be gentle while you keep your hips on the floor. Hold that stretch for 30 seconds to one minute.
You Could Also Do a Half Split Hamstring Stretch
A half split hamstring stretch is one of the most challenging stretches a runner can do before their workout. It’s ideal for stretching the low back, IT band, hamstrings, and your calves. You’ll want to start in a low lunge position with your right leg forward.
Make sure you keep your hips square and over your left knee. Do a slow fold over your left knee and then your right leg. That will help lengthen your spine, and keep your back straight. Keep that pose for about one minute, and then change sides.
Stretch Your Hamstrings by Standing Up
The standing hamstring stretch starts with you standing straight with feet shoulder width apart. Keep your chest up and your back straight. You’ll want to slowly bend forward at the hips with arms handing down. Keep your legs straight until you feel a stretch in your lower back and hamstrings.
Tight Hamstrings Can Cause Trouble for Your Performance
If you don’t stretch out your hamstrings, you can experience back pain, and other overuse injuries. These stretches are to help you control your risk of injury. Make sure your workout benefits you in every way possible.
For more great ideas for hamstring stretches for runners, call Scottdale Rehabilitation & Wellness Center in Scottdale, PA (724) 887-6615. We are happy to share more than three hamstring stretches for runners.