. Was it a sudden injury, for example a pulled muscle? If so, it could take 4-6 weeks to settle with a stretch and strengthening programme. It’s more likely a gradual onset, where the wrong forces are on the muscle causing it to overwork. This can happen

, swimming or a well-balanced gym routine helps to future-proof your body against the imbalances that can cause strains and over-use injuries. Don't underestimate how much your hips and upper body contribute to a stable, smooth running style.And stretching

caution during rehab (since the heat loosens things up and you might stretch something further than you should), Bikram meets her philosophy of the importance of a ‘global stretch’. This is where every area of the body is worked on rather than just

pulls were the second most common complaint, with shin splints coming in fourth.Why are they so common? Anyone who runs on hard surfaces, trains in worn-out shoes, rapidly racks up mileage or neglects stretching and strengthening the lower leg is at risk

and help reduce inflammation. Save the hot bath for later, when the heat will help ease any lingering soreness. Stretch OutWhether you’re a stretching fan or foe, you might find a gentle session beneficial after easier runs. Ease into stretches slowly

brace, and plenty of walking drills and Pilates. "As you can't isolate back muscles, you can use Pilates to get to the cause of the problem," he says.Pilates is an effective way of strengthening your back and core -stretching and developing the muscles

’m stretching the hamstring before and after runs, but it doesn’t seem to be getting better. Can you help?A There are many potential causes of hamstring tightness when running. If the hamstring felt tight but not acutely painful during or after training

of the low lumbar spine, leading to persistent problems with discomfort and pain after delivery. During the latter stages of pregnancy and particularly delivery, the sacro-iliac joints and ligaments are stretched, and it is thought that this can lead to a

at the front rubbing across it. I’m not sure I’d worry about stretching the hip, which will make it feel (temporarily) looser but instead really work on improving your hip and pelvic control and not necessarily strength.Q2. Is there such a thing as a phantom

stretch one-piece design and a narrower, snugger feel in the forefoot.In short It’s basic, but it’s 25g lighter than the last version of the Gel Lyte DS, which it replaces. The Gel Verdict is a super-responsive shoe for fast training or longer racing