STRETCHING FOR LIFE

TRUTH IS THAT STRETCHING ELONGATES 
YOUR LIFE

Daily stretching can add 10-years to your life with daily. Most of us feel our workout is the "main event" but hold on here.

Stretching can be part of a plan help to eliminate unnecessary injuries and surgeries. You can enjoy less pain, more flexibility and better blood flow to your muscles! 

All that equals a more comfortable, confident & fulfilling life. 

And who would not want that?

Follow these tips from The Mayo Clinic:

1. Stretching is NOT your warm up. Allow a LOW INTENSITY ten minute walk, jog, or bike ride before you stretch. Exception: if you are going into an "intense-event" like a "sprinting race" hold off on the pre-event stretch because it could decrease performance.

2. Focus on major muscle groups. When you're stretching, focus on your calves, thighs, hips, lower back and joints that you routinely use at work or at play. And make sure you stretch both sides.

 This is actually my issue, my hip flexor, and I do several of these after my daily workout.

3. Don't aim for pain. Expect to feel tension while you're stretching, not pain. If it hurts, you've pushed too far. Back off to the point where you don't feel any pain, then hold the stretch.

You can see that "this" stretch isn't difficult but it's benefits are long lasting. Hold for 10-20 seconds and repeat 3 times. 

4. Make stretches sport specific. Some evidence suggests that it's helpful to do stretches tailored for your sport or activity. If your sport is walking regularly, for instance, can tighten up your achilles tendon - stretching there can make a world of difference so you can keep walking.

5. Keep up with your stretching. Stretching can be time-consuming. But you can achieve the best benefits by stretching regularly, at least two to three times a week. If you don't stretch regularly, you risk losing any benefits that stretching offered. 

6. Bring movement into your stretching. Gentle movement can help you to be more flexible in specific movements. Tai chi, for instance, may be a good way to stretch. Start slowly and gradually work up the speed as your muscles become accustomed to the motion. - I personally love Yoga - find a gentle Yoga class for starters. It also relieves stress.

7. Know your body and when to exercise caution. If you have a chronic condition you may want to adjust your techniques. If you already have a strained muscle you do not want to further injure it with the wrong stretch. Ask your physical therapist.

It should feel good and one can get a little farther in their stretching program each week. 

My personal theory is to stretch is to stretch half the time of your workout. If I walk, run or workout for 40 minutes my stretch program is about 20-minutes.

"Helping" to prevent muscle injury is what stretching is all about and that will equal continued strength training and cardio workouts that will enhance and improve your life. 

Yes, with a great stretching program you will help to leave pain behind and enjoy your life's journey wherever you go! 

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