How to prevent tight hamstrings from running

Stretching is frequently the first thing that comes to mind for runners who are hurting from tight hamstrings. Hamstring tightness may very likely be the cause of the pain. Here's why your stretching is probably not helping you, though. Stretching definitely won't provide the relief you're looking for because hamstrings in runners are typically tight because they are really over-lengthened rather than tight because they are shortened by contraction.

What Causes Tight Hamstrings in Runners?

Three muscles, the semitendinosus, semimembranosus, and biceps femoris, make up the hamstrings, which extend from the hip to the knee. Below your glutes, on the back of your thighs, are these muscles. They tighten as you bend at the hip or knee, which is essential for running.

You're more likely to feel tightness if you've hurt one or both hamstrings. Any of the hamstring muscles that are strained or torn develop scars as a result of the injury, shortening the muscle and reducing its range of motion.

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