Back of the Body Opener for Runners - From Neck to Toes

As both a yoga instructor and a passionate advocate for runners' well-being, I'm excited to collaborate with Coach Amanda on this comprehensive "how to" video designed to open up the back of the body from the neck to the toes. This sequence of stretches and foam rolling exercises is tailored specifically for runners, addressing common areas of tension and tightness that can hinder performance and increase the risk of injury.

In our video, Coach Amanda begins by guiding athletes through gentle stretches and self-myofascial release techniques to release tension in the neck and upper back—the areas where stress often accumulates, especially for runners who log long miles. By targeting these areas first, athletes can improve posture, reduce discomfort, and optimize their running mechanics.

Moving down the body, Coach Amanda then demonstrates foam rolling exercises for the mid-back, lower back, hips, and hamstrings, addressing tightness and promoting flexibility in key areas that play a crucial role in running biomechanics. These exercises help runners release muscle tension, improve range of motion, and prevent injuries, allowing for smoother, more efficient movement on the road or trail.

Finally, our video concludes with stretches and mobility drills for the calves, ankles, and feet—the foundation of a runner's stride. By paying attention to these often-neglected areas, athletes can improve foot and ankle mobility, reduce the risk of common running injuries like plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis, and enhance overall performance.

As runners, we know that taking care of our bodies is essential for longevity in the sport. This "Neck to Toes" back of the body opener offers a holistic approach to self-care, addressing the interconnectedness of the body and promoting balance and harmony in both physical and mental well-being.

Join Coach Amanda and me in this transformative video as we guide you through stretches and foam rolling exercises to open up the back of your body from neck to toes. Let's prioritize self-care, optimize our running performance, and cultivate a deeper connection with our bodies—one stretch at a time.

Looking for more support? CLICK HERE to Check out our strength program for runners and get your first week free! Unlock access to over 100 strength, yoga, and running how to videos!

Kelly Roberts

Head coach and creator of the Badass Lady Gang, Kelly Roberts’ pre-BALG fitness routine consisted mostly of struggling through the elliptical and trying to shrink her body. It wasn’t until hitting post-college life, poised with a theatre degree, student loans, and the onset of panic, that she found running. Running forced Kelly to ditch perfectionism and stomp out fear of failure. Viral selfies from the nyc half marathon struck a chord with women who could relate to the struggle, and soon the women’s running community Badass Lady Gang was born.

BALG is about enjoying life with a side of running. Kelly’s philosophy measures success by confidence gained, not pounds lost. If you aren’t having fun, it’s time to pivot. Kelly is an RRCA certified coach and has completed Dr. Stacy Sims ‘Women Are Not Small Men’ certification course helping coaches better serve their female athletes. Over the years Kelly has coached thousands of women from brand new runners to those chasing Boston marathon qualifying times, appeared on the cover of Women’s Running Magazine, joined Nike at the Women’s World Cup, and created a worldwide body image empowerment movement called the Sports Bra Squad. She lives in Brooklyn, New York.

http://BadassLadyGang.com
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Enhancing Mobility: Foot and Ankle Warm-Up Exercises for Athletes

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Back and Body Opener For Those Days When You're Feeling Stressed