can imagine - then chuck in some more cobbles on top.BenefitsPreliminary research suggests the vibrations increase muscular activity in the legs (quadriceps, hamstrings and glutes) up to 167 per cent more than cycling on a regular stationary bike

already accomplished something before coming to work.”How I Overcame... InjuryName: Bill HardwickAge: 44Occupation: Food technicianLives: Leicester“I learnt my lesson 10 miles into my first marathon. I’d been running with a hamstring tear for most of my

in the same position for the next three or four hours you will ultimately end up with very short hamstrings and calves. If you can make the time I would recommend doing some weekly flexibility stuff too - I am convinced that this lessens aches after running

/ground contact time) than a firmer surface. The extent of hip and knee flexion on foot contact were greater on sand, and hamstring activation was higher.If you’re accustomed to running mainly on road, Dr Nicholas Romanov, Pose Method founder, advises keeping your

. There are various possible causes – the runner has bad biomechanics or bad bone structure; has followed bad training advice or owns bad shoes; has weak quads or tight hamstrings. Rehabilitation advice includes a programme of rest, icing, strengthening the quads

, but no one seems to care.Wes Wisham, 4:24:55 First Timer, Age 44... Best moment? Singing with fellow runners and doing the Y-M-C-A hand signals in unison on one stretch, great fun! Worst moment? Pulling a hamstring at 23.5 miles and having to pull off

-leg exercise that echoes the unilateral motion of running." Basic lunge too easy? Step it up with the 'skater lunge' (shown below) to further isolate the quadriceps, hamstrings and glutes,  strengthen the big muscles that stabilise the knee and improve your

in the hamstrings, gluteals, calves, groin and quad areas. Hold stretches for at least 30 seconds. It’s very important that you stretch these muscles after exercise, too, because the increased intensity will lead to muscle tightening and stiffness. Self

stability causing knee pain?Weight training - how to balance quads and hamstrings to protect the kneesHip Area / Upper legHernia - time for surgery?Hip pain - diagnosis discussion - and discussion of advice-giving!Hip pain - feels right on the socketHip pain

unlucky, they were)...  Foot problem 9.6%Calf tear 3.7%Shin splints 5.7%Knee problem 14.7%Hamstring problem 3.9%Back problem 7.9%(NB: If any figures look odd, bear in mind that the percentages are proportions of respondants to each individual