Tight hamstrings

[ChiefExec]

What to do? Anyone have any tips aside from the traditional hamstring stretches, which no longer seem to be working for me? I have recently increased the mileage of my runs and my hamstrings are bothering the daylights out of me!

[funniegrrl]

Yoga! Don't rely on a video, get thee to a good beginner's class. It takes a little time, but works wonders -- not only for the hams but lots of other areas as well.

Another point that Kathy Smith has made is that STRONG hamstrings are just as important as loose ones. So, if you're not doing any strength training, you might look at working those hams and quads with lunges, squats, etc.

[ChiefExec]

I forgot to mention I've done yoga 2x a week for the past 4 or 5 years now. :D Not helping the hamstrings ... no matter how many downward dogs I manage to do. :p

Strength training just might be the ticket. My routine is totally devoid of any weight lifting, I'm ashamed to admit. Thanks for the advice.

[nowimcooking]

Get a massage! :D

(yep, I'm a massage therapist)

[MaryH]

Tried any Pilates?

It seems to help me but then again it is mainly stretching the muscle. (I run and lift, so for me the stretching is the opposite.) Your idea to balance by lifting if you already stetch makes a lot of sense.

[charliecat]

Sounds like something else is keeping your hamstrings tight....try stretching your psoas (hip flexor) it can release your hamstrings.