To Stretch or Not to Stretch??

Before... during... after.....not at all?????

Apparently this is a huge discussion among the running community. I never really thought about it until reading an article in a magazine and finding out pro runners have all different ideas of when to stretch.

In the article it basically says that its important to stretch. But when?

Stretching Before
Stretching before your run will help elongate your muscles so you run with the best range of motion. BUT, since your muscles are not warmed up yet don't stretch to your limit, its not supposed to hurt! Some runners do a few easy stretches, (This would be Stretching While Running) run a mile or two and then do some more gentle stretching before the hard part of their work out.

Stretching After
Stretching after your run by holding for 30 seconds (static stretching-I'm learning quite a bit) is great to help keep muscles from tightening up. I have found that stretching after feels really good, and helps me to stay loose.

None At All
Not recommended.

Yoga
Doing yoga will help your flexibility, strength, and relaxes the mind and thus helping your running, life etc. I have tried yoga in the past and I loved it, though its hard at first, don't be discouraged, its a fabulous work out for the body and mind. I was just careful when picking the class due to not wanting to be in one where they focus on "chi" and "being one with the earth and mother nature".

Personally I only stretch after I run. Though after reading a few articles I am going to try stretching before and during. I will let you know how it goes and if it makes a difference for me.

I will soon do a post on how to stretch and the myths and tips about stretching!

Stuck inside, but not on my rump!

Its snowing like CRAZY as I write this. Though the picture above is from last year that is about what it looks like...Cold and snowy. But while most people (me including) stay inside and watch movies, which I did today as well, I did get off my rump and kept with my training plan! I went to the gym in my sweats and changed into shorts and a tank top there, and watched the snow fall!!! Its BEAUTIFUL!

"Training"

Today was the first day of "training". Well, kind of. Its actually the first day of my 42 week training plan...haha. I went to runnersworld where they have a great tool called "SmartCoach". I finally decided my problem is, I was getting lazy. Sitting on the couch was more of a desire than getting out and going to the gym, or running outside.That is not ok, or God glorifying. I understand that relaxing is ok, but I was truly just being lazy.

"The way of the lazy man is like a hedge of thorns, but the way of the upright is a highway." Proverbs 15:19

So on with the schedule. The plan starts off fairly easy with just 3 days a week; starting off with a 4 mile run today, which, by God's grace, went well. Challenging-which is great. I need to get my mindset off of "if it's hard, I'll stop" and onto "the challenge is the point!" which was what I pushed through today. It is way more mental than physical!!! My knee started hurting 3 miles in but was able to run through it, and I think it will start getting stronger...hopefully.

If you are asking "whats she training for?" the answer is.....I'm not sure yet! I have been praying about a few different races. One is the Denver Rock N' Roll 1/2 which is October 9th. I have a few friends that are thinking about it as well. The other is a lot more...shall I say.....exciting? It would be with Team Challenge- which is the team that raises money for The Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America. I am just starting to converse with the team coach to talk about all the technicalities and things. We will see! With that the race is the Napa to Sonoma 1/2 marathon in California, and the money raised would go to CCFA and towards my airfare and hotel. Danny said he would do it too if that's what I choose! I'll keep you posted!