[Mona]

I started stretching but my muscles hurt. Any tips on how to do it right? Any special foods to eat?

[Mary]

Firstly remember that your muscles should be warmed up in order to avoid injuries. So never start stretching without preparatory exercises! Your stretching exercises also should be slow and gradual. Intensity here doesn’t work and moreover too intensive stretching movements can lead to soreness and muscle pull.

[Mona]

Hey, i'll be careful, thanks.

[Bertha90]

I would start off with a five-minute jog as a warm up, and then do a 10-minute stretching session. Focus on your quadriceps, hamstrings, calves, groin, IT band, hips and even your shoulders and neck. Stretching after a short warm up has been shown to be more effective than stretching “cold.” Personally, I found that when I did this, my run felt smoother, less stiff and achy and I didn't have the feeling that I had cement legs! I do think it’s very important, however, to spend 10 to 15 minutes stretching after your runs…especially the longer ones! Your muscles will feel tight and achy due to the lactic acid, fatigue and muscle strain, and the stretching can help you to recover quicker. And that hurt feels so good! Go team go!

[Mona]

I actually like the hurting feeling after stretching, but there is one problem that's bothering me, my left legs is too strained and won't stretch. Need to visit the doctor.