Are tight calves slowing you down?
If so, keep reading.
Tight calf muscles can negatively influence your run form, along with the efficiency of your running. Worst yet, they can also lead to injury.
Stretch Tight Calves
In the video below, Physical Therapist and avid runner Kearsten Fish, PT DPT, shows you the best stretch to alleviate tight calves and prevent injury while running.
This simple stretch for runners with tight calves targets the muscles in the backs of the legs that attach from the knee to the mid-calf, along with the muscles that extend to the Achilles.
If you have irritation in or an issue with the Achilles, this is a great daily stretch for your routine.
To start, stand in front of a chair or support. Step one foot back and the other foot forward into a comfortable stride.
Gently glide forward, maintaining good pressure on the heel of your back foot. Make sure to keep this heel down because that’s what is going to give your tight calves a good stretch.
As you glide forward, make sure not to extend your knee over your toe. If you are, widen your stance.
Hold this glide position for three to five seconds, then ease off.
Complete 15 repetitions of this stretch on both sides, swapping the direction of your stance.
Are you a runner struggling with pain or injury?
Unlike other medical providers, Buffalo Rehab Group understands your need to run. Get back to running pain- and injury-free with help from a Physical Therapist who loves running, too!
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