Flexibility during exercise

We hear it all the time, “better stretch that out,” “oh its sore? you should stretch more.” Flexibility is an aspect of health that manyt people neglect. However, flexibility is important because tight muscles can create problems throughout your body. Activities that lengthen and stretch muscles can help you prevent injuries, back pain, & balance problems.

Prevent or treat back pain:

Some people have naturally short hamstrings, through genetics or lack of flexibility. When your hamstrings are tight, they pull the pelvis down & create more pressure for the lower back.

The tendons around the muscles stiffen when you do not stretch & keep them flexible. Having tight muscles gives you a reduced range of motion, so it is easier to go past that range of motion & injure yourself with sprains, strains or even ruptures. By stretching & increasing range of motion you can reduce the risk of injury significantly.

Imagine an easier & less restricted tennis serve or golf swing. Being able to bend, reach & move through daily tasks with ease all come with a consistent stretching routine. This doesn’t mean neglecting other types of training, but simple add a few stretches into your routine. Specialists suggest stretching at least 3 times a week in order to feel & experience the full benefits. You can adjust your routine to stretching more days a week after you have gained more flexibility. Yoga is used universally as a form of stretching, relaxation & balance. What a wonderful combination! If you’re not into yoga, thats fine too, you can stretch at the gym or in the comfort of your own home.

In the past you may have been told to stretch right before doing any exercise. This has been a topic of extensive research for many years & experts no longer suggest stretching before exercise. When stretching it is important to do a WARMUP before hand. Easy walk or a sport-specific routine. This gets blood & oxygen flowing to your muscles. Good times to stretch: After 5 to 10 minutes of warm-up, your muscles are warm & supple or as a post-workout cool-down. The benefits of being flexible are endless, so start today.