pooling in our veins and muscles, which can (I think) cause issues such as varicose veins. We're also supposed to re-establish our muscle length by stretching, because constant contraction during exercise causes them to shorten, though personally I don
if RW readers could settle a hot debate in our club about speed work. Our head coach is suggesting a session for endurance athletes, as follows: Small warm up and stretch, then speed work (eg 2x5x100m), then straight into the car and drive home without a
. The first thing you should do after a run is stretch and re-hydrate. You can combine stretching with core exercises on an exercise ball – I got one for Christmas and they're brilliant. – Pit Stop CrewTry Pilates before your runHave you tried doing a Pilates
? (grasshopper1)Strength training with free weights, the Swiss ball for core stability, different types of stretch and stability exercises – all those are twice a week. And I try to fit in some time on a Nordic ski machine, elliptical trainer or aqua jogger
I've been quite lucky. The only injury I've had was in Jan 2000, which stopped my running for four months. I had physio and an extensive weights programme, and the recommended stretching exercises are now a regular part of my routine. Since then I
temporary; stretch marks are forever! – Karen MMy advice is to carry on running, as it's something you've always done, but don't take up anything new. I exercised right up until a couple of weeks before I gave birth to my third child. It was the quickest
. Without a good aerobic base, this is counter-productive. Once you find that sustainable pace, and get used to stretching out the distance, you'll find that your 'base pace' gradually speeds up. Forget about speed work entirely for the moment, slow down
Get the right shoes and remember to stretchIf you've got the right shoes for your feet and gait, I'd say that the calf and shin problem will subside once your body gets used to running. Just make sure you're doing plenty of stretches after your sessions
suspicions. "It just never seemed to get closer." (Click here for more of your Windsor reviews.)It's vitally important to stretch and cool down after a difficult run – especially one where hills and speed combine to punish your thighs. A long walk in search
at all! Is there a risk of doing damage? My legs feel very stiff this morning, despite stretching when I got home. Any comments?" – BellaYour best answersKeep your torso warm, and the legs will followAre you sure it's your legs that are the problem? When
