You should avoid static stretching before running because it reduces the muscle tension necessary for the 'spring' effect and does not prevent injuries; opt for a dynamic warm-up instead.

noli's read

The idea that prolonged static stretching (more than 60 seconds per muscle group) immediately before explosive effort can temporarily decrease power and strength is supported by several systematic reviews, including the meta-analysis published in the 'Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports'. The 'spring' effect mentioned by the creator refers to muscle-tendon stiffness, an important parameter for running economy that static stretching can indeed alter in the short term. Regarding injury prevention, the evidence is more nuanced: meta-analyses (e.g., 'British Journal of Sports Medicine') indicate that static stretching alone before exercise has no significant protective effect against injuries. The dynamic warm-up recommended here is widely validated by research for improving immediate performance by increasing body temperature and joint lubrication. The statement is therefore scientifically sound in terms of performance, while avoiding overgeneralizations about stretching outside of workout sessions.

the sources

No named source held this one up — that absence is part of the verdict.