Strike a Yoga Pose: Quarter Dog


Updated 05/16/12 7:17 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 2 comments

Easy on the Wrists Variation of Downward Dog Yoga Pose

If you love the way Downward Facing Dog stretches out your hamstrings, calves, and lower back, but don't love the wrist pain the pose can cause, then here's a variation to try. With your forearms on the ground, the quarter dog variation takes the weight out of your hands and wrists. Even though this pose seems relaxing, it's not as easy as it looks. This pose will not only intensely stretch the Read more

Stretch It: Foot and Hip Flexor Wall Stretch


Updated 12/04/09 9:05 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 0 comments

Hip Flexor Stretch

Whether you run on the trail or the treadmill, your feet and hip flexors become so tight it can be uncomfortable to walk. To ease the tension, here's a stretch you can do that will not only target your tootsies and the front of your hips, but will also stretch out your tight calves. Kneel on the ground and place your right toes on the wall as high as you can with your heel on the floor. Place Read more

Stretch It: Calf and Shoulder Stretch Against a Wall


Updated 07/23/08 5:28 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 2 comments

Stretch It: Calf and Shoulder Stretch Against a Wall

I've been working on running up hills because it's so good for my booty, but my calves have been getting super sore too. I've been doing this stretch daily since it also stretches my shoulders. Stand in front of a wall with your feet together. Place your hands on the wall shoulder-width apart. Rock your weight back on your heels without locking your knees, so your toes get pulled off the Read more

Stretch It: Calves


Updated 02/24/11 11:13 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 0 comments

Stretch It: Calves

The calf muscles get worked from just about every activity, from wearing killer heels to running. It pays to know multiple ways to lengthen tight calves and here are five of my favorite stretches. Source Read more

Stretch It: Calves


Updated 07/12/11 10:36 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 7 comments

Stretch It: Calves

Tight calves can be an unwanted side effect of such opposite activities as running or wearing high heels. Many people neglect stretching their calves! Since you have two layers of calf muscles, you need to do two stretches to ensure you are reaching both. So try these stretches after your next run or after a night of dancing in your Jimmy Choos. Gastrocnemius Stretch Place your hands on a Read more

Attention, Brides: If You're Wearing Heels on Your Big Day, Read These Tips


Updated 04/25/12 2:30 AM · Posted by · 0 comments

Tips For Wearing Heels on Wedding Day

For many brides, the perfect wedding-day outfit includes a jaw-dropping white gown and a princess-worthy pair of heels. But if you're donning a pair of pumps for your big day, make sure you read these tips to keep your feet happy and healthy. Stretches and exercises are important: Wearing heels too often can lead to different ailments, like bad posture, bunions, and tendinitis (not to mention Read more

Seven Calf Stretches


Updated 02/05/12 10:38 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 5 comments

Best Calf Stretches

The calves are one of the most overused muscles in the body, and tight ones can lead to overuse injuries. If you wear heels, run regularly, or both, stretching your calves is a must. Here are some great stretches for the calves. Try them all. Pick your fave. Then do it daily. Source Read more

High Heels Can Give You Barbie Feet


Updated 01/26/12 12:45 PM · Posted by · 0 comments

Study Shows High Heels Damage Leg Muscles

High heels. You either love them or hate them, but you can't deny they are chic. We love the height boost and illusion of longer legs they offer, but we do realize they're not the best things for our feet. Unfortunately, recent research shows that these lovely shoes may be worse than previously thought. In a study of longtime high heel wearers, published in the Journal of Applied Physiology, Read more

Don't Forget These Stretches After a Run


Updated 04/13/12 4:10 PM · Posted by · 0 comments

Postrunning Stretches For Hips, IT Band, and Calves

After your run, your legs are probably in need of a good stretch. But it's not all quads, hamstrings, and glutes. Don't forget these areas when stretching after your jog. Hip flexors: Combat all that forward propelling (and desk sitting) with stretches that open up and loosen those all-important hip flexors. Tight hip flexors can lead to back pain and a limited range of motion, so make sure you Read more

How to Deal With Spring Running and Shin Splints


Updated 04/09/12 7:04 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 25 comments

Running and Shin Splints

When Spring weather hits, many runners can't wait to wave goodbye to the treadmill and head to the open road. All that fresh air and gorgeous scenery gives the sense of freedom, but it can also cause a painful sensation in the front of the lower legs. Shin splints are a common ailment for runners switching from the treadmill to the road, and if a runner doesn't take certain precautions, that pain Read more