The Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research published a study in 2009 and discovered that most regular stretching exercises that we perform before a race or marathon can actually be obstructive to your running effectiveness. The results of the study demonstrated that an increase in hamstring flexibility correlated with a decrease in “running economy.” One researcher stated, “the less flexible distance runners tended to be more economical.” Running Economy refers to the amount of oxygen we intake, the amount of energy we expel, and how everything in between that process works together. Basically, having a good running economy means that your body is working optimally to give you what you need to run successfully. This is why some runners are turning to Dynamic Stretching moments before their marathon. They include quick-paced movements such as jumping, bounding workouts, and leg swings. This approach helps to “fire up” the muscles that you will most likely use instead of just making them more flexible. Dynamic Stretching exercises involve movements like the Knee Cradle: Stand on one leg while you cradle your other leg in your arms for a few seconds. Other examples of dynamic stretching include Butt Kicks, High Knee Raises, and Lunges.