Researchers at the University of Cape Town, South Africa studied the association between the COL5A1 gene, flexibility, and performance in participants of the 56K Two Oceans ultra marathon.
Those who have the COL5A1 gene tended to have an improvement on running economy than those who didn’t. Also additional research pointed out that those who possessed the gene were less flexible, measured by the sit-and-reach test.
Research revealed that those who had the gene finished a test race 24 minutes faster, than those who lacked the gene. According to Matt Fitzgerald of competitor, muscle fibers are like rubber bands some are tight and some are loose. The loose fibers stretch more, but don’t have a lot of force.
It is just as important to stretch your feet as every other part of the body when preparing to exercise. To learn more about the benefits of stretching, contact a podiatrist like Dr. Neal Mozen of Foot HealthCare Associates. Dr. Mozen can guide you to starting a healthier exercise regime.
Giving Your Feet the Stretch It Needs
Foot pain is very common for people. Our feet carry the entire weight of the human body all day and can be easily strained from overexertion. The feet can receive cramping which can be from any number causes. Pain in the feet can be alleviated without medication and or doctor visits.
How stretching helps:
Stretching relaxes the feet and eases pain whenever performed. It is important to perform stretching slowly and gradually with no force. Stretching should only be held for several seconds, and then relaxed.
Tips to Perfuming the Perfect Stretch:   
Sit and cross one leg over the other by pulling the toes carefully back without overextending. Start by resting the left ankle on the right knee. With the left hand, gently flex the left foot by pulling back on the toes. Do not pull too hard, just hard enough to feel the stretch in the arch of the foot. Then point the toes of the left foot as far as you can. Rotate the motion of pointing with pulling back on the toes.
To learn more about Stretching the Feet, follow the link below.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact our offices in Southfield, Novi, or Livonia, MI. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to suit your needs.
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