had I stretched more, not scoffed at the benefit of gym-work for core strength and building up muscles such as my quads, and realised the importance of identifying and rectifying postural imbalances early on, I might have avoided many injuries and even
to make the same big improvements in the winter that you can in the summer, and never skip your warm up.Hard-core winter runners also have to become weather watchers and build flexibility into their training schedules. If a storm front looks to be rolling
and keep your eyes on your feet to avoid nasty falls. Rough ground and increased twists and turns can seem tough at first, but regularly heading off-road will help you cultivate stronger ankles, knees and quads, solid core stability, and a sharper running
pressure." After winning the US 10K title in 1993, American three-time Olympian Lynn Jennings attributed her victory, in part, to having had sex the night before. She claimed that it had "solidified [her] core feeling of happiness".Sexual healingSex can
and building core strength for good posture will help prevent injuries," says Pierce.Here's howAfter doing the envelope run (above), do two sets of the following: 30 seconds each of press-ups, squats and crunches; 60 seconds of planks and calf raises; 90
as welcome respite after the intensity of the Triangle and Stick poses. Tree gives you a chance to open your hips, improve your posture and as always with Bikram, strengthen your core muscles, glutes, hams and quads.Tadasana: Step by Step1. Stand with your
, this pose requires a strong core and an extraordinary amount of focus. Whether it's during a lung-busting 5K or a marathon, we've all had soul-searching, 'why am I doing this?' moments when running seems like a really silly idea. The previous four poses
/forward.Utkatasana: The benefits'This posture is great for your core strength and balance,' says John Elliott, studio manager of Bikram Yoga Miami. 'As part of the Bikram warm-up, it loosens up your knees and ankles, whilst strengthening the ACL and PCL. Knee and ankle pain
splayed for extra balance. Make sure you are tall through your spine and engaging your core.2. This next bit is the tricky bit. Raise your hands above your head, arms straight, then swing them down in front of your body and cross your left arm over your
you'll start your next run feeling that bit taller and stronger. It also works your core, toughening up your mid-section which, if done regularly, will help your running posture and keep you going for longer before you start to bend forward
