Written by There are at least 6 benefits of stretching if it is done properly. Stretching not done properly can result in an injury such as a strained muscle. And you thought we were stretching to prevent injuries.
We are stretching to prevent injury but you must warm up your muscles before stretching them completely.
The body is flexible. It is supposed to be flexible. You must be able to bend and reach something you dropped on the floor. You must be able to zip the back of your favorite dress on your own. You must be able to reach that can of beans you need at the top shelf.
These are simple activities we do everyday. Nothing grand about them, you merely stretched out a bit. However, if you are having difficulties in doing such simple motions, then you need a stretching program.
What Is Stretching?
Stretching is simply the act of extending to full length the body or simply a part of it. This activity involves straightening or stretching the structure or the limbs.
How Do You Stretch?
Stretching is a fairly easy activity when done properly. As mentioned in the introduction, it is involved in a lot of normal activities we do everyday. Stretches can be done by anyone, regardless of age.
However the extent of stretching and flexing differs. Your muscles tighten as you age. The range of joint movements may slow down as we age or have an injury. This can very well obstruct an on-the-go lifestyle.
That is why as the person grows older, the 6 benefits of stretching becomes more important. Stretching regularly, as part of a routine is very important.
Simple stretches can be done everyday. They can and should be incorporated in your lifestyle and the daily activities. They can be done in 5-15 minutes easily.
Stretching exercises can also be done while training. Actually, stretching is an essential part of any training or sport.
First you need to warm up your muscles a little bit especially in the winter. A good 5 minute walk or ride on a stationary bike is all you need in the summer but the colder months may require a little longer..
Stretching the body and the limbs is a good preparation for the more rigorous activities to follow.
Most athletes spend a great deal of time warming up and stretching. A torn muscle can keep them out of action for weeks or months.
Some people say there is actually an ideal length of time for stretching. About 10 minutes is what I normally hear. But every person is different so take the time you need. .
Experts however would frown upon going way beyond 10 minutes. Stretching for like 30 minutes or more would wear you out.
There Are 6 Benefits You Get From Stretching
1. Increase the Range of Movement
As one constantly does the stretching exercises, the length of the muscles and the tendons are also increased. This will help in increasing the range of your movement. Thus, the limbs and joints will be able to move more easily and prevent injury.
2. Increased Ability to Perform Skills
When you have a wide range of movement, the more you will be able to do and the better you will be in competition if you are a competitor. Stretching along with a workout program allows you to have a more active lifestyle.
3. Injury Prevention
One can prevent injury to joints, tendons and muscles with stretching. When the muscles and tendons are flexible, you are less prone to injury. This will help in a faster recovery and decreased soreness. The muscles of the body will be able to take more exhausting and rigorous movements with less probability of being injured.
4. Reduce Muscle Tension
If your muscles are given regular exercises and stretching, it is less likely that they will contract. This will definitely relieve you of any muscle pain or problems. Stretching after your workout is very important to ease the soreness you may have the next day.
5. Enhance Energy
Being able to move more will also give you more energy. Stretching will also help enhance your awareness, like knowing what your bodies limitations are.
6. Reduces Cholesterol
Research also shows that doing prolonged stretching exercises, like yoga, will help reduce the cholesterol in the body. This of course must be done with a healthy diet at hand. This could prevent and even reverse the hardening of the arteries, allowing you to avoid coronary diseases.
These are the 6 benefits of stretching you will get if you have a good workout program. Before and after you workout you should do 5-15 minutes of stretching. And don’t forget your warm-up period before you start stretching at the beginning of your workout. If you need a good book that shows you how to stretch just click on stretching.
