Cooling down after training is essential.
Stretching is the foundation—it helps prevent injuries, improves flexibility, and eases muscle tension.
"…Rice?"
"Can't…"
"Eh? Seriously?"
Rice Shower had a problem: she was way too stiff.
When she tried a basic seated forward bend—legs stretched out, reaching for her toes—she barely moved. Her posture stayed perfectly vertical, like she was doing a comedy skit. Her joints were so rigid it felt like a gag, even though her body was soft to the touch.
"No..can't-…"
Rice whimpered, tears welling up.
But flexibility is non-negotiable for injury prevention. So I had no choice—it was time for some tough love.
"'I can't' is just a lie."
"Hah!!"
I crawled behind her and gently pressed my chest against her back, urging her forward.
"No-…"
"Come on almost there..."
Rice groaned dramatically as I pushed. Finally, with a loud squeal, her forehead touched her knees.
"See? You did it!"
"Hemyu…"
Rice could no longer form words, just a soft, squeaky cry.
But that was just the forward bend. We still had more to do.
I sat across from her and asked her to open her legs wide. She barely reached 90 degrees before freezing.
"No! Rice's legs don't open that much!!!"
"If I can do it, you can do it!!"
I gently pulled her hands while nudging her knees outward with my feet. With a soft pop, her legs opened to a full 180 degrees.
"Next up—knees."
I turned her over, bent her knees, and pressed her heels toward her glutes. They sank in with another soft pop.
"Hyaaaaa!!!"
"Your shoulders are stiff too."
Upper body flexibility is just as important for running. Without changing her position, I placed my palm on her shoulder and pulled her elbow back.
Pop! Pop! Her shoulders responded with a satisfying stretch.
"Higyu!!"
By now, Rice's squeals had become part of the rhythm.
After about 30 minutes of guided stretching, her body had loosened up considerably. Sure, the process was intense—but it was all for her benefit. A little pain now to prevent bigger pain later.
Rice Shower lay sprawled on the mat, breathing heavily, cheeks flushed, completely exhausted.