Stretching

STRETCH!

While stretching is often the most overlooked exercise, it's one of the most important for keeping us agile as we get older. And, unlike the rigors of cardio and strength training, it's relaxing and it feels good.

Stretching can be done anytime throughout the day, but it's also important to stretch after your workouts, especially if you have any chronically tight areas. Almost everyone can benefit from stretching the soft tissues - the muscles, ligaments and tendons.

Keep the following in mind when starting a stretching routine:

Wear comfortable clothes that won’t bind.

Stretch your muscles when they're warm (after your warm up or, even better, after your workout).

Stretching should be pain free; do not force the body into difficult positions. Stretch within your range of motion.

Do static stretches with a focus on tight areas such as the hamstrings and lower back.
 
Move into the stretch slowly and avoid bouncing, which may actually tear muscles.

Stretch on a clean, flat surface that is large enough to move freely.

Hold stretches long enough (20-30 seconds) to allow muscles or joints to become loose.

Repeat the stretch, generally 5 – 10 times.

Stretch a minimum of 2-3 days a week...even better would be every day.