If you are like me, then you have a daily routine that probably squeezes in just a small amount of time to take care of you after taking care of everyone else. What I mean by that is that if you have kids, a job, a life, working out is sometimes last on the list but if you are able to get it in 4-5 or more times a week, stretching becomes that much more important. Read this article written by Lydia Di Francesco, a certified Personal Trainer and Nutrition and Wellness Specialist to find out why stretching is essential to your everyday routine and figure out a way to incorporate it into your day.
Here are some of the main benefits of stretching:
For Your Body:
-Helps improve flexibility (increases your range of motion) -Assists in correct posture by lengthening tight muscles that pull areas of the body away from their intended position (because of so much time at our computers, many of us have tight chest muscles which pulls the shoulders and head forward, leaving us with a hunched shoulder look) -Potential to decrease injury by preparing muscles for work before activity -Increases blood and nutrient supply to muscles, thereby possibly reducing muscle soreness
For Your Mind:
-Even a short amount of time (10-15 minutes) of stretching can calm the mind, provide a mental break, and give your body a chance to recharge -Classes like yoga or pilates offer you a chance to spend an hour releasing tension physically and mentally
To get the most out of the stretching you do, here are some suggestions:
Skip the Pre-Workout Stretch
Your muscles should be warm before you begin your stretching. Do a warm up
before a workout that simulates the movements you'll be doing in order to warm up and prepare your body. Stretch after the workout when your muscles are already warm.
Focus on the Muscles That Need the Most Help
Instead of trying to stretch your whole body after every time you exercise, focus on a key area of the body each time. Spend longer on each stretch and include more stretches for each area. If you are aware of muscles that are tight, then focus on those ones.
Include One Long-Duration Flexibility Session Each Week
Choose a flexibility class, such as yoga, hot yoga, pilates, or do your own flexibility work for 45-60 minutes at least once a week. If you're having trouble sticking to it, follow these strategies and build it into your schedule/calendar.
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