Stretching

“Stretching causes many injuries.” – It may surprise you to learn this, but I’m not a big advocate of stretching. After having worked with tens of thousands of runners, and conducting surveys, I’ve discovered that those who stretch regularly have more injuries – often as  direct result of stretching. While there are some specific stretches that help some individuals, I believe that most people who run and walk don’t need to stretch at all.

In many other sports, like tennis, basketball, soccer, golf, etc., stretching warms the  muscles up, for activities that the body was not designed to do. Running is significantly different than those other activities. We were designed to run and walk long distances – our ancient ancestors covered thousands of miles a year! Stretching pushes the tendon and muscles beyond what they are currently ready to do, often into injury.  

Learn more about stretching in Jeff’s book Running: Testing Yourself. You will find the book at:  available in the shop

Jeff Galloway smiling near a lake with city skyline in the distance.
Jeff Galloway

Jeff Galloway, US Olympian and creator of the Run-Walk-Run method, has helped over 350,000 runners achieve their goals through his innovative training programs. As Runner's World's monthly columnist and author of North America's best-selling running book, Jeff has spent over 50 years sharing his expertise and continues to conduct running seminars worldwide as runDisney's Official Training Consultant.

Run Smarter, Not Harder:

Join the Run Walk Run® Inner Circle

Get exclusive running tips, training plans, and motivation straight from jeffgalloway.com to your inbox. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned runner, our newsletter will help you achieve your running goals with less effort and zero injuries.