If you run regularly, you’re no stranger to tight, sore muscles and the occasional injury. In addition to regular strength training coupled with proper nutrition and sleep, the right stretches after a run can help your muscles cool down and get ready for your next workout. Despite popular belief, there isn’t a lot of research that supports stretching before a run, according to physical therapist Corey Rovzar , Ph.D. In some cases, it can actually impact performance. “Stretching after a run is great, though, because you’ve already put in those miles and it’s more of a recovery,” says Rovzar. “It should always be done gently. Just a nice, light stretch that should feel good and help assist those muscles as they cool down a bit.” Here are Rovzar’s favorite post-run stretches, with finer points on how to maximize each. Should You Stretch Before Running? Read article 1. Kneeling Hip Flexor Stretch “The biggest limitation I typically see with runners is hip-flexor tightness