Spiritually Connected Magazine Issue 5 | Page 20

3 BEST STRETCHES TO DO BEFORE RUNNING Walking Lunges Walking lunges engage several muscles in the lower body and when done properly, they can also tighten and strengthen your core muscles. In the first movement of the walking lunges, you target the muscles of the glutes, hamstrings and quadriceps when you move your leg forward. Kneeling Hip Flexor Stretch This is one of the top stretches for tight hips. Position foot beyond forwarding knee. Place hands on the knee. Straighten hip of rear leg by pushing hips forward. Hold stretch. Repeat with the opposite side. Side Stretch The side stretch not only relaxes the muscles and loosens up the torso, but it feels great. RUNNING FOR WEIGHT LOSS You probably have heard that running is the best way to lose weight and yes it is. Running helps you burn a great number of calories and increases your metabolic rate. When you are running for the first time, it will seem difficult but as time goes on and you get in shape it would be much easier and relaxing. Try running for 30 to 90 minutes 3-5 times per week. This will help you burn more calories. To approximate how many calories you burn with each mile, multiply 0.75 times your weight in pounds. It important that you keep hydrated. So you need to drink water before and after your run. Also, eat a healthy meal with the right calories intake to support your running schedule. Finally, have the right shoes that support your ankles, are comfortable and give you good support. SPIRITUALLY CONNECTED | 20