Feelgood Fitness: Stretches for Runners

5. Pigeon Pose

What stretching routine would be complete without at least one yoga pose? The pigeon is great for runners, stretching your legs, hips, thighs, and back. Start by sitting cross-legged on the floor, then extend your left leg out behind you. Your right knee should be bent, with the right foot as close to your groin as is comfortable. If you’re having trouble, bend your right knee a bit less until you loosen up.

Rotate your body so that your hips are parallel to the floor, place your hands either right in front of you or on your right ankle and knee, and stretch your upper body up and back slightly. Hold here for a few deep breaths, then release your upper body forward, resting your head on your folded arms. If you can’t yet reach the floor, you can stack your fists and rest your head on your hand. Hold for a few more breaths, then repeat on the other side.

Let’s hear from the runners out there! What are your favorite stretches to keep your body limber after pounding the pavement?

Image Credit: Creative Commons photo by lululemon athletica