In recent weeks I started adding it to my usual stretching routine after my runs. All this time I thought my foot grief was related to my hamstring or calf. Turns out (in my Web MD certified opinion) that the problem steps from my tight hips. I really ought to dust off my Athlete’s Guide to Yoga more often.
I’ve been doing the couch stretch which is fine but the pigeon stretch does amazing things. I can really see the difference when I do “test, re-test.” This stretch targets among other things my hip flexors and the IT band.
I remember Carleigh used to always talk about loosening up hips but my eyes would just glaze over. I am not really hip to “yoga speak.” (Say it in English, please). But now I get it. I get it.
On my long run yesterday, I felt my right leg stiffen after about two hours. So I got down on the dirt and struck a pigeon pose for a couple minutes. Wonders. I was able to run another two hours without my leg seizing up.
I’m making this pose a part of my day – at least a few times. It’s THAT amazing. Anyway that’s my short-term goal. Make this a habit. Time is ticking and both my May races are just about a month or so away.