Stretch yourself a little
You’re squeezing exercise into an already busy life. So it’s tempting to skip stretching. But the few minutes you save could sideline you with an injury and head you back to a rut of inactivity.
Why stretching is so good
- Increases your flexibility
- Improves your posture
- Prevents stiffness
- Decreases injury
- Gives your body time to relax
What to stretch
Gently stretch all the major muscles in your body every day, including:
- Front and back of your thighs
- Calves
- Hips
- Chest
- Shoulders
- Back
How to stretch
While you stretch, notice how strong you are. Your changes are building a better body. Thank your body for your good health.
- Take a deep breath.
- Relax into the stretch.
- Hold each stretch for 30 seconds.
- Never force yourself beyond your limit. Take another deep breath. Usually your body will allow a deeper stretch.
- Feel pain? Stop.
When to stretch
After you finish an aerobic workout, your body’s warmer. You’ve worked your muscles and earned these quiet moments of relaxation.
If you stretch before your work out, warm up your muscles for a few minutes first with some light activity – walk around the track or do a couple of jumping jacks.
- Create a calm, quiet environment that you can look forward to relaxing in while you stretch.
- Get a beach towel or yoga mat to cushion your joints while you stretch.
- Pick out one of your favorite CD’s to listen to as cool-down music. Don’t stop stretching until your favorite song is over.
- When you’re scheduling workout time, include cool-down and stretching time as well.
Previous | Next
Contract for Change
Make a personal contract to change for good. Download now (PDF)
.com
.com