Do you require a few miles to work through soreness and stiffness? Maybe you start your run with a closed stride and a groan, only to find it loosen up after you settle into a grove?
Why does this happen? Motion is lotion. I use this phrase often as a Physical Therapist and while sometimes a good warm-up is that’s needed, it can be a sign that your body needs more.
Stiffness and soreness are often signs that your body asking for help. Only, the sore and stiff spot is likely not the problem — it’s only the symptom. A variety of symptoms, from stiffness and soreness to pain and discomfort, often develop in areas that are injured due to compensation.
Most often, the compensations – or imbalances – develop from weakness or lacking flexibility.
That’s why I love the exercise below. Not only does it target key areas of weakness and tightness most runners struggle with, but it helps prep the body for a run where you can feel great.
Give 20 reps on each side and see how you feel on your next run.
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