Running can lead to injuries if precautions aren't taken. Yoga builds flexibility, strength, and balance, drastically cutting your injury risk.
Focus on poses that stretch hips, thighs, and calves—key areas prone to tightness. Upper-body strengthening poses are equally vital, as running often neglects this region.
Read also: 'Why you don't lose weight even if you run'
Good for: Shins, knees, feet, hips, thighs, hamstrings, and calves. It also stretches arm muscles and upper back, which stiffen after long runs.
Spread your fingers wide on the mat ahead, push hips skyward—tailbone high. Press heels toward the floor as flat as possible.
Good for: Upper body and arms
From Downward Dog, shift to high plank. Drop elbows to low plank, roll forward over toes, straighten arms, lift torso, and arch back. Hold for five to ten steady breaths.
Good for: Hamstrings and hips
Lie on your back, cross left ankle over right thigh, pull legs toward torso. Hold ten calm breaths, then switch. This gentler pigeon variation spares runners' knees.
