Runner Rachel needs to stop stretching

February 23, 2017

hi there,

i am a runner and as a result very stiff, i suffer regular injuries, nothing too series but a lot of calf pulls, hamstring strains and i have a niggle in my groin which i have had for over a year.

I’m stiff as a board and sometimes go to a pilates class, which i really enjoy. however, i think i need to focus more on stretching and would like to go to a smaller class size.  i work in W1 and would be keen to know if this is something your outfit can offer and if so can I come along for a chat or try out a class?

perhaps you would be kind enough to let me know.  best regards rachel

Rachel
February 23, 2017

Hi Rachel

Stop stretching. Really. The definition of madness is doing the same thing and expecting a different result. This is stretching down to a tee. You feel tight, you stretch you feel better then you feel tight. Stretch, eat, sleep, repeat….

If you don’t know why you feel tight it’s pretty pointless trying any type of stretch, no matter how different they feel. Tissue is being shunted around, with lots of different names.

I bet you 1 of 2 things, or probably both. Stability (control of what you’re doing) and strength (to allow progressive loading) with a dusting of endurance because you’re a runner.

Having multiple symptoms doesn’t mean that you’ve got multiple things wrong with you – more likely you’ve got a single cause with multiple symptoms. You need to identify and deal with the cause, and don’t just chase your symptoms (no matter how satisfying it feels!)

We can absolutely help, and show you what’s wrong and what you need to do to help yourself. Our Pilates classes are great – why not drop by and have a chat?

The Guru

Guru Responded

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