Exercises: Plyometrics - Stretches

The purpose of this link is to provide an ongoing resource of exercises i.e. strength and Range of Motion (ROM) exercises / stretches.

Not only is it important to be structurally / biomechanically efficient but it is just as important to be strong and with adequate joint ROM and flexibility. The combination of these three disciplines (as well as a healthy diet) is what I consider to be the foundation of an injury free / health fulfilled lifestyle.

Some of this material may be running / sports related but all can (will) benefit from a regular strength and ROM / stretch program... particularly the older one gets.

♦ General Core Stability Exercises:

The following videos are courtesy of the Runner's World Website:

- The first instalment is a series of floor based strength exercises (Dynamic Core Routine) from marathon runner Josh Cox (2.13) who is based at Mammoth Lakes (California), where he trains with a group of distance runners, including Ryan Hall (2.06 marathon runner).

Just click on the arrow (>) to play...

♦ Circuit Training: this is a good training session for developing all round strength, agility & flexibility in amongst running reps. (hence honing the strength into the running motion). This is effective for safe guarding yourself from future breakdown / injury whilst building an aerobic base. This workout is also effective in providing a bit of diversity into the weekly training schedule.

The following 4 videos are from Jay Johnson, courtesy of Running Times.

- Just click on the arrow (>) to play...

- Plyometric Exercise as well as Dynamic Stretches (probably best described via video format) which are both great forms of acquiring good ROM before activity as well as (specifically in the case of Plyometrics) developing good strength, technique and efficiency / economy.

• For ease and practicality, the plyometric and stretching information are in separate subheadings to the left (under "Exercises" in main menu).