The 8 Best Stretches to Do Before Running

The 8 Best Stretches to Do Before Running Nothing can derail your fitness goals like an injury. Running with muscles that are cold and not properly stretched can result in a muscle strain that keeps you off your feet -- and off the road or trail -- for days, weeks, or even months. Starting your run with a 5- to 10-minute jog followed by stretching helps warm up your muscles so they’re primed for your run, whether it’s a couple of miles or a marathon. Focus on stretching the major muscle groups you'll be using -- quads, hamstrings, gluteals and hip flexors -- and don't forget moves that also warm up your abs, back and calf muscles.

Original article and pictures take http://www.livestrong.com/slideshow/1010451-8-stretches-before-running/ site