Be Flexible

One of the ironies of running is that it strengthens leg muscles but also shortens and tightens them, making runners especially susceptible to plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis. While FitNews, published by the American Running and Fitness Association, points out that stretching hasn't been proven to reduce injury, it can contribute to the long-term health of joints and tissue. Done regularly, stretching can improve balance and joint range of motion, minimize loss of elasticity, and counteract some of the connective tissue stiffness that occurs with age. And stretching calf muscles in particular has shown to reduce pressure at heel strike and to the forefoot by as much as 50 percent.

Post-performance Pampering

There's nothing like spending a half-hour horizontal on a massage table to make the aches and pains of a strenuous run go away. Aside from relaxing tight muscles, a massage can improve circulation, muscle tone and flexibility, realign muscle fibers, decrease soreness and reduce recovery time. Afterwards, slip some SorboAir® insoles in your shoes and you'll be walking on air.

Find a listing of sports massage therapists in your area through the American Massage Therapy Association at: www.amtamassage.org/findamassage/locator.htm