Winter often brings heavy legs, shortened strides, and stiff muscles. Canadian Running Magazine recommends four simple yoga stretches to improve runners' range of motion and ease muscle tightness.

A study published in the National Library of Medicine shows that 10 weeks of consistent yoga practice significantly enhances runners' flexibility and balance, helps maintain a steady running pace, and reduces stiffness in cold conditions.

When performing these stretches, runners should hold each pose for 30-60 seconds, focusing on steady breathing and body relaxation. If any sharp pain, ache, or numbness arises, reduce the range of motion or stop. Cold weather often makes muscles less flexible; therefore, gentle stretching to a comfortable point is more effective than forceful overstretching.

Consistent simple stretching during the colder months prepares the body to achieve goals at the VnExpress Marathon All-Star 2026, scheduled for 8/2/2026. Launched in 5/2025, this event is Vietnam's first and only standard-qualifying marathon, targeting serious and disciplined runners.