Stretching has always been considered a staple part of the runner’s preparation and training. Strident claims that it improves running performance and reduces chance of injury have been made since the running boom started in the 1970’s. Other benefits of stretching are thought to be reducing post-race or post-training muscle soreness, relief of low back pain, to counteract muscle imbalances, and to relieve muscle cramps.

Yet, in the past 10 years, the practice of stretching for these purposes has been challenged by exercise scientists, especially since one bombshell study found overstretching is the third major cause of injuries to distance runners.

Another research paper got coaches attention when it showed runners who stretched occasionally have a higher injury rate than runners who don’t stretch at all. Nevertheless, physiotherapists and coaches continue to recommend stretching, at least for injury rehabilitation and warm-up purposes, so the debate rages to this day.