We know you could spare five minutes.

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A young black woman doing post-run stretches in the park on the road amidst green grass and trees.

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But before you collapse into post-run bliss, theres one more crucial step: stretching.

And no, its not optional.

woman sweating in the gym

Why is stretching after a run so important?

Yourpost-workout recoveryis often ignored, Copeland says in the episode.

You want to give yourself enough time to stretch, whether its just five minutes or even less.

Woman walking on a treadmill at the gym.

Well, first of all, its the secret to actuallygetting stronger.

As a result, your muscles wont be able to rebuild themselves stronger.

Dynamic vs. static stretching: Whats the difference?

Full body female athlete in sportswear using rowing machine during fitness workout in gym.

Who needs fancy termsstretching is stretching, right?

Well, not really.

Allow us to explain.

Happy woman dancing and listening to music near a green empty wall outdoor in the city.

Lets take running, for example.

Hold each stretch as long as you want to, or repeat as much as you want to.

I just recommend you do each one for at least 30 seconds.

Healthy female training in the gym, performing a hip thrust.

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Im a Master TrainerHeres Why You Shouldnt Skip Your Post-Run Stretches.

(Prefer a flow you might watch?

We also have an episode dedicated topost-run stretcheson Well+Goods YouTube seriesGood Moves.)

Seated tree pose

3.

Seated quad stretch

4.

Seated spinal twist

5.

Sodownward dogis perfect for stretching your calves.

Your post-workout recovery is often ignored.

We want to ensure were getting a stretch in after any workout that we do.

Traci Copeland, Nike Master Trainer

Frequently Asked Questions

1.

Should runners stretch every day?

Theres no one-size-fits-all stretching routinewhat works for one runner may not work for another.

you’re able to slowly work up to seven days a over time.

What stretches should you do after a run?

Learn how to do themand moreabove!

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