Calf stretches? : Anyone have any... - Couch to 5K

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Calf stretches?

AngryFlower profile image
AngryFlowerGraduate
4 Replies

Anyone have any recommendations for good calf stretches prior to a run? I do a series of exercises before I go out but my calf’s are rather tight feeling, especially so in the first km. Anything I can do to loosen them off prior to getting going, I have quite muscular calf’s so need something quite intense I think.

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AngryFlower profile image
AngryFlower
Graduate
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4 Replies
Bluebirdrunner profile image
BluebirdrunnerGraduate

I only do the warm up walk prior to running, but always stretch well after my warm down walk while my muscles are still warm. A good one for calves is toe raises and heel drops. Stand on the bottom stair facing up with your heels half off the step. Hold on to the wall or bannister for support. Gently go up onto your toes, and hold for a few seconds then back to level. Next gently drop your heels just enough to feel the stretch, hold then back to level. Repeat a few times.

You could think about getting a massage roller for your calves if they feel tightly knotted. But do read the instructions and follow them carefully.. I have this one...

Physix Gear Sport Muscle Roller stick

Also drink plenty of water for tight calves to help the muscles.

Good luck😊x

AngryFlower profile image
AngryFlowerGraduate in reply to Bluebirdrunner

Thanks I do do the toe raises afterwards but it’s before fans during I’m having an issue. I’ll defo check out foam rollers though

Tasha99 profile image
Tasha99Graduate

Foam roller after 👌🏽

AngryFlower profile image
AngryFlowerGraduate in reply to Tasha99

Thanks

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