Why a Warm up before running matters more after 40
Still skipping your warm up before running? In our 20s and 30s we could often get away with it. But let’s be honest once you hit your 40s (and beyond), even getting out of bed can feel like a challenge, let alone heading straight out for a run.
The good news? A warm up doesn’t have to be long or complicated. It should be tailored to your body and your needs. For me, that means a little Pilates mat mobility. Just 10 minutes on the mat before I head out especially at this time of year gets my joints moving, my head in the right space, and my body ready to run.
That’s exactly why in the Pilates for Runners Membership we start the week with 10-minute mobility classes every Monday and Friday at 7 am. They’re short, effective, and always popular and you can try them yourself during FREE Class Pass Week, 22nd–26th September.
Why a Warm up before running is essential (Especially after 40)
I don’t know about you, but some mornings I feel like the Tin Man from The Wizard of Oz.
Everything is stiff, creaky, and slow to get moving. That’s just part of the ageing process reduced mobility, tighter joints, less flexibility and at 60, I’m focusing on it more than ever.
But you don’t need to wait until you’re my age to start looking after your body. A warm up before running helps:
✅ Increase blood flow
✅ Loosen joints
✅ Wake up muscles
Why waste the first 10 minutes of your run feeling sluggish when you could prepare your body properly in the same amount of time? More importantly, skipping a warm up puts you at greater risk of those frustrating injuries and niggles.
Pilates Mobility: The smarter warm up before running
So why Pilates? Because it ticks all the boxes.
Pilates mobility is:
- Dynamic, low-impact, and joint-friendly.
- Focused on posture which helps reduce fatigue.
- Great for core stability and pelvic control key for efficient running.
- All about alignment and activating the muscles you need most.
In short, Pilates is the smart way to prepare your body for a run without draining your energy.
Consistency counts
Doing a warm up before running once in a while won’t cut it, consistency is what makes the difference. When you build the habit, you’ll feel the benefits every time you run.
And with Pilates for Runners, you get the best of both worlds: a warm up that sets you up for today’s run and a long-term investment in your strength, mobility, and running future.
Try It for FREE – Class Pass Week
I get it time is tight. Adding something else to your running routine can feel like a lot. But that’s exactly why the Pilates for Runners Online Membership is designed to work around your life.
Here’s what you’ll get:
✨ LIVE Pilates classes during the week
✨ 100s of on-demand 10-minute sessions to do whenever suits you
✨ Real interaction I see you, guide you, and adapt the exercises for your needs
✨ A supportive community of like-minded runners
This isn’t just a follow-along workout. I take the time to understand your body, your goals, and your injuries so you get the most from every session.
And the best part? You can try it completely FREE during Free class pass Week, 22nd–26th September.
Choose one class or all seven and see how Pilates can change the way you run.
👉 Sign up here and I’ll send you everything you need.
Still not sure? Take a look at the timetable below and pick the class that works for you.
The Takeaway
A warm up before running should be non-negotiable especially if you want to keep running stronger, longer, and injury-free. Pilates mobility makes it simple, effective, and even enjoyable.