Does anyone stretch after running?

[KittyCatt]

In the podcasts, Laura gives us the 5 minute cool down but doesnt say anything about stretching. Is it beneficial??

[shelleymcb Graduate]

I never stretched my legs when I was working my way through c25k but once I was running more & more & was noticing aches & pains in my lower legs I started stretching. easy stretches for my legs. lunges that stretch the back of the calf & standing on a step on tiptoes & lowering my legs. also standing on one leg & holding the other foot up to your bumcheek & pushing your hip forward.

I did get aches in my lower back during c25k & found that laying on my back with knees in my chest & rolling lower body from side to side relieved this.

the leg ones I do now after every run.

[Helen3boys]

I stretch before and after each run, and did that from about week 3 because I was getting aches and pains. I still get the aches and pains (!) but am hoping they're not as bad as they would be if I hadn't have stretched.

[Hidden]

Absolutely every time I run - it only takes 5 mins to stretch and it helps reduce the aches and pains for the rest of the day. It also helps you to be aware of strains and tight areas that might affect your running.

These are the stretches recommended by the runner who developed C25k:

coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_...

[juicydee Graduate]

Yes, I always stretch afterwards too - as a very creaky 55 year old I figured I couldn't afford not to! It also feels rather nice (mostly)......

[lesleyann208]

I always stretch afterwards, I also do pilates once a week so stretching is part of my routine if you like.

[KittyCatt Graduate]

Thanks guys! I'l make sure to stretch atleast after my run! Also thanks SarahSpangles for the link, i always get confused as to which stretches i should actually do : )