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Stretching isn’t just for athletes. We can all benefit from improved flexibility. Why?
Because stretching may help prevent injury by increasing the range of motion of your
joints, and can help manage stress by relaxing the muscles. While I always recommend making
stretching part of your regular fitness routine, I also recommend you make it part of your
daily routine, too.
Here are some ideas to get started:
First off, don’t begin stretching when you’ve just rolled out of bed. Stretching cold muscles
can lead to injury. So walk around, begin your morning routine, and then start stretching.
For tight hamstrings, sit on the floor with your legs extended and your back straight.
Lean gently forward, toward your toes until you feel a stretch. Hold the stretch for 10
to 30 seconds. Remember to take your time and BREATHE while
doing this! That’ll encourage your muscles to relax and lengthen. Never bounce in a stretch
because it can lead to an injury. Here’s another good one: To stretch chest
muscles, stand with the front of your body touching a wall, arms extended at shoulder
height. Keeping your right arm where it is, begin to move your body slowly toward the
middle of the room until you feel a stretch in the right chest and shoulder. Uncomfortable
is OK… but pain isn’t. Alternate left and right sides until you’ve gently stretched
both sides 2 to 4 times.
Try a new stretch tomorrow. I bet you’ll feel more limber and relaxed throughout the
day.