08/03/2022
Hamstrings
A common problem that often precedes a formal injury is feeling tightness or soreness in the hamstring. Tightness can be caused by a lack of flexibility, strength, aggressive over-striding or poor training habits.
To alleviate this discomfort or potential injury, many choose static stretching, which might actually make the problem worse. The hamstrings, rather than being too short and needing to be stretched, are often over-lengthened causing the issue.This may be caused by one or a combination of factors.
Many people have quadriceps that are dramatically stronger than their hamstrings, a consequence of extended periods of sitting. While quads are usually stronger than hamstrings, this imbalance can be pronounced resulting in the pelvis being pulled forward into an anterior pelvic tilt. As the pelvis tilts forward, it elevates the area in the back of the pelvic bone where the hamstrings attach, resulting in over-lengthening.
4 Ways to Alleviate Sore Hamstrings
โข Roll the quads, hamstrings, and hip flexors to stimulate blood flow and relax any muscles that might be carrying too much tension. Massage, massage sticks or foam roller have also been shown to reduce inflammation and stress hormones while improving range of motion.
โข Strengthen the abdominal muscles by incorporating a variety of planks, pelvis tilts, and reverse crunches to help keep the pelvis in a stable, neutral position. This will help counteract an anterior pelvic tilt caused by the quadriceps/hamstrings strength imbalance.
โข Strengthen the hamstrings with single-leg deadlifts, glute bridges, and hamstring curls to help make up the quadriceps/hamstrings strength imbalance that likely exists.
โข Improve your running technique by Youโll want to focus on cadence, posture, and landing underneath your body instead of in front of it.