The inchworm: How to do it correctly + the benefits for runners

The inchworm is a great dynamic warm=up exercises for runners – especially when done before a speed session. You can also add it to your strength workouts to build strength in the arms, chest, shoulders and core

The inchworm exercise has many uses. It can be added to a strength workout to build strength in the arms, chest, shoulders and core, but also doubles up as a great running warm-up exercise.

'It's a great way of developing range of motion, control and coordination in joints across the whole body,' says Graeme Woodward, a UK Athletics Level 3 performance coach, UKSCA accredited S&C coach and We Run coach for West Yorkshire. 'It's especially recommended before fast running as a dynamic exercise as it targets the posterior chain muscles of the calves, hamstrings and glutes. 'In the downward movement, the opposite abs and hip flexors are stretched making this a more whole-body movement.'

However runners with lower back issues should be careful with the inchworm exercise and should not move into pain.

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