One of the major benefits of stretching is the reduced risk of injury when you take the time to stretch before a
workout. When you stretch your muscles you are lengthening your muscles in order to increase muscle flexibility and range of motion.
Some of the benefits of stretching include:
- Increased range of motion
- Increased circulation
- Better Posture
- Stress Relief
As with any other activity, there is a good way and bad way to stretch. Below is a list of stretching tips.
Warm up your muscles before you stretch them. You should never stretch cold muscles because you may injury them. Walk or do a low intensity activity for five to ten minutes.
Stretch without pain. While stretching you should be able to feel a slight pull, but no pain. Hold your stretch form thirty to sixty seconds to get the full benefits.
Do not bounce. Bouncing while stretching can cause small tears in the muscle which can lead to scar tissue build up, injury, and less flexibility.
Don’t forget to Breath. You should never hold your breath while stretching. Exhale as you stretch, and inhale while you are holding the stretch.
Stretch targeted muscle groups. If you are feeling stress, and have pain due to tight muscles in the neck and back, try stretching. By stretching these muscles, you relive the tension and the pain.
Although you should always warm up and stretch before a workout, do not forget to stretch after the work out as well. This aids in the recovery of the muscles after the workout. You should stretch while the muscles are still warm, directly after the workout.
Remember to stretch, even on days when you are not working out. You can and should stretch everyday to help improve your flexibility, and relive the stress on your muscles. Take a few minutes in the morning or before bed to stretch those muscles, and get the blood flowing.
