There might only be days to go before the event but there is still plenty of time to make sure everyone has a chance to last the length.

Xiong Xibei, a professor in the athletics department at Beijing Sport University, is suggesting all runners perform these three stretches just before the gun sounds.

1. Tricep stretch

Raise one arm over your head and point it out horizontally while behind your neck. Use your other arm to stabilize your elbow.

Hold for 10-20 seconds, then switch sides.

2. Side torso stretch

With legs standing apart, lean the body over so that one arm pulls over the top of the torso. Point the fingers of that hand out to the side.

Hold for 10-20 seconds, then switch sides.

3. Leg stretch

Sit on the floor and extend both legs out straight with feet pointing up. Gently bend forward at the waist and try to touch the toes of one leg.

Hold for 10-20 seconds, then switch sides.

China Daily

(China Daily 10/20/2010)