3 Leg Stretches Runners Should Do Daily


Updated 04/20/12 11:09 AM · Posted by · 0 comments

Running Stretches For Tight Hamstrings and Hips

I don't think I've ever met a runner who doesn't suffer from tight hips, hamstrings, or a lower back. The receptive movements and strengthening aspect of running can cause tight muscles that need extra attention. Of course you should never skip the stretching session after a run, but here are three lower-body stretches you should do every day — even on the days you don't run. Open Lizard What Read more

Beyond the Basics: 5 Helpful Quad Stretches


Updated 02/16/12 12:24 AM · Posted by · 3 comments

How to Stretch the Quads

After a series of outdoor runs this week, I wasn't prepared for how on fire my quads would feel during today's yoga class. Going through the Warrior poses proved difficult, and by the time we moved into a variation of pigeon pose, I was breathing deeper than ever before. It was a good reminder that even though I always stretch after working out, I don't give enough attention to my quads — a Read more

Stretch It: Quads, Five Ways


Updated 04/21/09 10:51 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 1 comment

Five Ways to Stretch Your Quadricep Muscles

I love stretching my legs and especially my quads. It's a must-do move after hiking, cycling, running, stair-stepping, or any other activity that gives your thighs a workout. Thankfully, I've found plenty of ways to stretch my quadricep muscles, and all of them feel great. Here are my five favorite ways to stretch my quads. Read more

Stretch It: Easy Quad Stretch


Updated 02/17/11 1:22 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 1 comment

Stretch It: Easy Quad Stretch

I think the quads are the most over worked muscles in our bodies and they sure do get tight. This standing quad stretch is one of my favorite stretches because you can do it anywhere (I often do it when I am waiting for the elevator when no one is around). In fact I often refer to it as a "portable stretch" since you need no props to do it and you don't have to get on the ground. Here are Read more

Maximize Your Quad Stretch


Updated 02/24/11 11:02 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 1 comment

Photo of David Beckham Stretching Quad Muscle

David Beckham can make a common quad stretch look sexy. The Pilates instructor in me, however, take issue with his form. His stretching form, that is. To see how Becks can improve his technique, simply read more Read more

In Honor of the Kentucky Derby, 4 Exercises That Celebrate the Horse


Updated 05/02/12 9:55 AM · Posted by · 0 comments

Horse Pose, Horse Stance, and Other Exercises in Honor of the Kentucky Derby

The Kentucky Derby is this weekend, which means lots of Southern-style celebrations surrounding a horse race that'll be over before you can blink. But donning a wide-brimmed, fully decked out hat and imbibing mint juleps isn't the only way to pay homage to the all-American event.  Why not celebrate the Kentucky Derby with a few equine exercises too? Here are four exercises that are inspired by 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

The 3 Most Common Mistakes Runners Make


Updated 04/16/12 9:38 AM · Posted by · 3 comments

Most Common Running Mistakes

Running is one of the most popular forms of exercise, because besides burning major calories and toning your tush, it costs pennies compared to other sports. If you're a runner at heart, be sure to avoid these three most common mistakes. Wearing Sneakers For Too Long Your trusty old pair was there for you when you shaved two minutes off your 10K time and later conquered your first half, but that Read more

4 Tips For a Stronger Triangle Pose


Updated 04/06/12 12:22 PM · Posted by · 1 comment

How to Do a Better Triangle Pose

If you're feeling tight in the hips or side body, Triangle Pose (Utthita Trikonasana) should be your go-to pose. It's part of the primary series in ashtanga, and I always relish the moment when I know it's coming up in the sequence: it's perfect for giving much-needed love to muscle groups that tend to get overlooked. If you want to take this pose to the next level in your practice, here are four Read more

7 Reasons Your Yoga Instructor Might Yell at You (and How to Handle It)


Updated 04/06/12 4:09 AM · Posted by · 1 comment

What Yoga Instructors Don't Like

Yoga instructors are often the calmest people you'll meet, but when their beliefs are grounded in strict yoga principle and technique, they may sometimes put their foot down during practice. Here are some reasons your yoga teacher might reprimand you during class. Drinking water: Practicing yoga is about building your energy or prana, otherwise known as your fire. Some by-the-book instructors Read more