Jo Walker Yoga

Q: I am thinking about beginning a running program, and I’d like to know how to stretch properly. Do you have any advice?

A: Yoga can help you round out your running program with stretches and warm-ups. Here’s how:

Start with WISDOM. I am  100% confident that yoga stretches are the way to go. I am a hiker and and not a runner; however, I do know someone who is a runner and has written extensively on this. Try Sage Rountree’s book, The Runners Guide to Yoga. You’ll find a thorough guide to routines and poses targeted especially for runners at all stages of training.

Then use some CREATIVITY. A common problem for outdoor fitness stretching is finding an appropriate surface. You’ll need to be creative to find good spots for your asanas, since down dogs on hot pavement will hurt!

Finally, practice ACCEPTANCE. Fascia is connective tissue and is often deep in the muscle, and it is thick in some places. Be patient and mindful not to take this stretching into your tendons, ligaments, and joints.