We are not saying that you need to have the flexibility of a gymnast, but many injuries in athletics are caused by a lack of mobility in the major muscles used when running. As running is a repetitive movement, the muscles get used to only moving in a certain range of motion, which, overtime limits it to this range. This causes tight muscles which are often a precursor to more serious injuries.

Stretching and basic mobility drills such as hurdle walkovers are the best way to keep your muscles loose and mobile. Muscles to pay particular attention to are fairly obvious in terms of running. These need to be done on a continual basis if you are in regular training. See information in our warming up and cooling down areas of the site to get more specific information how what to do when.

Photo Indoor Hurdle Practice

The main muscles to work on are the calf (both with bent and straight legs - to get gastrocnemius and soleus), hamstrings, glutes and quadriceps.

Our stretching section has useful tips on how to perform ideal stretches for your important muscle groups.