By Heather McCauley
Whether you are young, old or somewhere in between, your body wants to stretch. Regardless of your fitness level, everybody (that is, every BODY) benefits from regularly and properly stretching our muscles. Stretching is one of the most often underrated and overlooked forms of physical activity. Yet, anyone can learn to stretch, it takes a very small time commitment and it yields incredible and measurable benefits to your body. A regularly practiced routine of stretching just 10 minutes a day can keep us agile and flexible long into our golden years.
If you are not a regular stretcher and have experienced any muscle tension, reduced range of motion or muscular coordination – or if you have been diagnosed with decreased or poor circulation, you will likely experience significant relief with just a few sessions of regular stretching. If your energy levels have been sluggish as well, this could be a side effect of poor circulation and you could see marked improvement with stretching. Even if you have a regular exercise routine, be sure you stretch before, during and after your workouts for optimum energy, range of motion and muscle recovery.
There are a few important basics that everyone should know prior to stretching. First, stretching is a natural motion for the body, and some people are more flexible than others. When you begin stretching, it should not be painful. You may feel slight discomfort but the longer you hold a stretch, the more comfortable it should become. It is important not to ‘bounce’ or force the body to achieve a stretch. Move your body slowly, easing into each stretch and remember to continue breathing. Hold each stretch for 15-30 seconds to achieve the maximum benefit. You should also refrain from deep stretching of ‘cold’ muscles (I like to walk the dog first) and do not stretch an area that is injured unless under the direction of a physician. For a how-to guide on the seven most basic and beneficial stretches, check out this link: Basic Stretching Routine.
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