The Running Channel Podcast 123: Do You Really Need To Stretch After A Run? The Debate
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Jun 7, 2025 The hosts debate the necessity of stretching after runs, weighing its benefits and drawbacks. They share amusing tales, including encounters with birds of prey and a bear, while recounting quirky moments from park runs. A remarkable story unfolds about completing 128 marathons in 128 days, highlighting the commitment needed for endurance feats. Additionally, they provide tips for hilly 5K races and discuss the importance of balancing recovery with the urge to run again, blending motivation with humor throughout.
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Bear Ate Jelly Babies
- Rick Kelsey shared a personal story where a bear entered his van in Yosemite and ate his jelly babies.
- This scary encounter was part of his reason for not camping again.
Challenging Run in Yosemite
- Sarah Hartley ran a challenging trail in Yosemite with 400 meters of elevation accidentally due to following a route backwards.
- She abandoned a solo run later out of fear of encountering a bear, showing the challenges of running in national parks.
Stretching Evidence Is Inconclusive
- There is no conclusive evidence that stretching after a run prevents injury or improves performance.
- Meaningful flexibility gains require frequent, dedicated stretching beyond just a few minutes post-run.