Why Stretching Will Keep You Happy and Fit

Stretching is the act of extending the body, or simply a part of it, to full length. This activity involves straightening or stretching the structure or the limbs.

The body is flexible. In fact, it is supposed to be flexible. The body must be able to bend and reach for that thing that you dropped on the floor, or flex adequately to zip the back of your favorite dress. These are simple activities. You merely stretched out a bit. If you have difficulties in doing such simple movements, then you have to stretch your limits.

Stretching is fairly easy. It can be done by any person, regardless of age. However, the extent of stretching and flexing differs because the muscles tighten as you age. This is why stretching regularly as part of a routine is very important.

Simple stretches can be done everyday. It can be incorporated in the lifestyle and the daily activities. It does not require much of your time.

Ground Rules for Stretching

Before doing workouts, you must give importance to doing warm-ups in order to prevent accidents. Below are some guidelines:

To increase your flexibility and to avoid injuries, stretch before and after workout. Almost everyone knows that stretching before workout prevents injuries during exercises, but only few people know that stretching after workout, when muscles are still warm, can increase flexibility.

Hold your stretching position for more than 60 seconds to increase flexibility. While holding your position for 20 seconds is enough for warm-ups, 60 seconds will improve the body's flexibility.

Do not repeatedly go into a stretching position, then immediately return to the relaxed position. Bouncing or forcing yourself into this position during stretching can strain or damage some joints or muscles. When stretching, hold that position for several seconds, and then slowly relax. You may do this exercise routinely this way.

Make sure that you have stretched or warmed up all muscle groups. Some people tend to neglect the neck. Stretching the neck muscles can be as simple as placing the palm of your hand against the front of your head and pushing it. Do the same to the sides and the back of the head.

Stretch regularly to increase your range of movement and your level of flexibility.

Benefits of Stretching

Increases the Range of Movement

As you constantly do stretching exercises, the length of your muscles and tendons are also increased. This will help in increasing the range of your movement. Thus, the limbs and joints are able to move even before an injury can take place.

Increases Ability to Perform

A wide range of movement also means that you'll be able to do more things. For instance, you can jump high without feeling any pain as you land back on the ground.

Prevents Injury

Stretching can prevent injury to joints, tendons, and muscles. Your muscles will also less likely decline if you give them regular exercise and stretching routines. Flexible muscles and tendons help in faster recovery and decreased soreness. The body will then be able to tolerate more exhausting and rigorous activities with less potential for injury.

Reduces Cholesterol

Research shows that doing stretching exercises, along with a healthy diet, can help reduce cholesterol in the body. This combination could prevent, and even reverse the hardening of the arteries, thus preventing coronary disease.

Apart from preventing injuries and increasing your limit, it is also said that stretching is good for a stressed mind and spirit. You should include stretching regularly in your chosen lifestyle. It doesn't require much effort and has benefits that can prolong your life.

Wellness of Your Mind, Body, and Spirit

The Healthy Eating and Good Nutrition Lifestyle