Sunday, July 8, 2012

Stretching


The Benefits of Stretching


There are several benefits of stretching, and it is important for you to include some stretching exercises into your fitness routine.


Stretching increases flexibility.

Flexibility is the degree to which an individual muscle will lengthen. As you get older, your muscles begin to shorten and tighten, restricting your flexibility. Your movement becomes slower and less fluid. You don't stand up as straight. You walk more stiffly and with
a shorter stride. You find it more difficult to bend down to pick something up.
You're more susceptible to muscle, joint and tendon injuries. One of the
greatest benefits of stretching is that it will increase your flexibility.
Increased flexibility will help you comfortably and fluidly perform life's daily
activities and help reduce the risk of muscle, joint and tendon injuries.



Stretching can eliminate low back pain.

Low back pain could be the most common kind of structural pain and it affects a large percentage of the population worldwide. Muscle tightness in the quadriceps, hamstrings, hip flexes and low back muscles is the common cause of low back pain. Not to mention our habit to have bad posture! Stretching these muscles will often eliminate the pain. Foam rollers are a great option to help stretch all those areas!


Stretching improves circulation.

Stretching increases blood flow to the muscles. Increased blood flow brings more nourishment to the muscles and gets rid of more waste biproducts in the muscle tissue. Improved circulation can also help shorten your recovery time. Check out some stretch bands to help get the job done!


Stretching feels good!


One of the best benefits of stretching is that it feels good! It is a great stress relaxer, and it helps improve flexibility! Precor makes a stretch trainer that is out of this world!


Our next blog will cover many different types of stretching techniques, and stretching accessories to help make stretching easier, and more comfortable!

Until next time!