MOVE OF THE MONTH JUNE ISSUE 2012

THE MOVES

Whether you are an avid runner or a seasonal runner, these stretches will help stretch and strengthen areas that tend get tight due to running.  Perform these movements after you run and again on your days off.

1.  Ankle and Calf

Ankle and Calf stretch

Place the balls of feet on a step and let the heel of one foot fall towards the ground.  Hold for 30 seconds. Do 2 times each calf.

2.  Psoas/Hip Flexor Stretch

Hip Flexor stretch

Stand 6” away from a wall with your back facing the wall. Lean left shin with pointed foot on the wall. Stand tall and keep upper body parallel to the wall. Hold for 30 seconds, do 2 times.

3.  Glute Bridge Exercise

Glute bridge exercise

Lie on the floor, arms at your sides, knees bent, and heels on the floor (1). Lift your hips with knees, hips, and shoulders forming a straight line (2). Hold 2 seconds, then return to start. Do 10 times.

4.  IT Band Massage with Foam Roller

IT band massage with Foam Roller

Lie sideways with the foam roller under the side of your thigh. Roll between your knee and your hip bone. Roll for 60 seconds. Repeat with other leg.

5.  Glute Medius

Glute Medius

Lie on your side. Lean your whole body forward 45 degrees and rotate your top foot so that the toes are touching the heel of your bottom foot. Lift your heal 4 inches off the ground and then lower back down. Do 25 reps.

6. Quads

Quads

Lie on your left side with your left hip flexed and thigh pulled up towards chest. Grab right foot with right hand.  Contract your abdominals and pull on foot to feel the stretch in the front of your right thigh.  Hold for 30 seconds. Repeat with the other leg.

Download Stretches and Exercises for Runners