Runners are notorious for not stretching and I have been the number one offender of this for years. I have known for a while that it has been holding me back in my running and finally I am doing something about it.

I have always been a bit apprehensive about joining a Yoga class, especially being someone that struggles to even cross their legs. It can be a bit intimidating seeing people do stretches and exercises with ease that you are struggling with big time. Well, I am into week 5 of Runners Yoga and am a convert. The instructor is excellent and really puts you at ease. The focus is on those areas that are most affected by running (hamstrings being my nemesis) and sequence of postures will first heat your body and then gradually, open your body, bringing back flexibility and elasticity to the muscles and open tight, compressed joints.

I have already noticed big improvements in my flexibility and feel that it is helping my running. To all fellow runners, I can thoroughly recommend taking a more whole approach to your training and incorporating activities such as Yoga.

After years of talking about it (just ask Brendan), I am making a concerted effort to take a more whole approach to my training this year. Along with the running and cardiovascular training, I am working hard to increase my flexibility (which is pretty average), strength and core stability. Looking back over the years, I don’t think I have got close to reaching my potential as a runner due to neglecting these things.

I needed some direction so sought out an expert. I found a guy called Curb who is also involved in trail races and has competed in numerous Knee Knacker events. I signed up for three sessions and it was one of the best decisions I have made. The first session focused on using a technique called Self Myofasical Release (SMFR), which is using a foam roller to improve flexibility, mobility of tight muscles and restricted joints. The second session focused on strength and core work and also some exercises to strengthen and increase mobility in my ankles (which I am having a few issues with). I have been working on the above in a local gym and will be going back in a couple of weeks to incorporate some power exercises.

I have also joined a Friday night Yoga group which is predominately for runners and just started kick boxing with Tanya today which was awesome. I am already feeling the benefits and believe that it will help me become a more efficient runner and hopefully prevent injuries. Nutrition is a work in progress and I wll be making sure I have a plan in place for my longer training runs and my races.