For Broad Street runners, 3 stretches to help tight hips

Are tight hips keeping you from hitting your stride? With the 38th annual Blue Cross Broad Street Run just around the corner, now is the perfect time to loosen up those stiff hip flexors.

Tend to taut muscles with the following restorative stretches. (You will need a yoga mat or carpeted floor for this circuit.)

High lunge. When there are kinks in the body's kinetic chain, joints fail to operate at full function. This is seen when tight hip flexors contribute to underactive glutes and, as a result, potential lower-back or knee problems.

➢     Step back with the right foot, and lower the body into a lunge.
➢     Fold forward and place the hands on either side of the left foot, making sure the right leg forms a straight line from the hip to the foot.
➢     Lift your chest up and stand tall, bringing the arms into an extended overhead position. Hold for 20 to 30 seconds, then repeat on the opposite side.

Extended side angle. This total body stretch opens the hips, lengthens the hamstrings, and strengthens the core and leg muscles.

➢     Stand with the feet shoulder-width apart.
➢     Elevate both arms until they are positioned parallel to the floor.
➢     Step the right leg out and turn the right foot and thigh out to the side. The foot and shin should form a 90-degree angle.
➢     Bend at the right knee and torso until the fingertips of your right hand graze the ground. Hold for 20 to 30 seconds, then repeat this stretch on the opposite side.

Wide-legged child's pose. This gentle stretch opens the legs into a deeper position, which helps improve your overall hip health.

➢     Begin on the hands and knees, positioning the knees wider than shoulder width apart. The feet are in plantar flexion, with the top of the foot touching the mat.
➢     Take a deep breath, straighten the spine and slowly lower the body so that your torso falls between your knees and your forehead is resting against the mat.
➢     Extend your arms and hold for 20 to 30 seconds.

Help your hips now so you can make it through the home stretch later.

Earn it.

To learn more about personal training options and her new virtual workout program, which can be done from the comfort of your home, visit ashleyblakefitness.com.