What’s Up beautiful people! Thanks for visiting DrxJoy Your Prescription For Total Wellness Blog!
We have an interesting article on Stretching Your Body…full of practical advice you can use TODAY…before you read this make sure you take three deep breaths:
INHALE
EXHALE
INHALE
EXHALE
INHALE
EXHALE (How do your feel?) I feel great!
Sooooooo……When Was The Last Time You Stretched YOUR Body????
Hmmmm. You are taking way too long to answer.
You pound out three miles on the treadmill. You work your way through a series of weightlifting exercises. You even add some time on the stationary bike for good measure — and you smile with satisfaction that you made it through your workout. Nothing to do now but hit the shower. I have even done this in the past. Trust me, you are not doing your body justice… Does this sound/read familiar???
Question for you? Did you consider stretching those muscles that pulled you through your invigorating workout? If your answer is YES, great! Kudos to you!!! But I bet either you or someone you know answered NO. Well, here’s why and how to include stretching in your fitness routine.
The WHY – Regular stretching is a powerful part of any exercise program. Most aerobic and strength training programs inherently cause your muscles to contract and flex. For equal balance, pay attention to stretching those muscles before and after your workout. Yes, you must properly stretch two times during your workout!
Here are some Benefits
- Stretching increases flexibility. Flexible muscles can improve your daily performance. Tasks such as lifting packages, bending to tie your shoes or hurrying to catch a bus become easier and less tiring.
- Stretching improves range of motion of your joints. Good range of motion keeps you in better balance, which will help keep you mobile and less prone to injury from falls — especially as you age.
- Stretching improves circulation. Stretching increases blood flow to your muscles. Improved circulation can speed recovery after muscle injuries.
- Stretching promotes better posture. Frequent stretching keeps your muscles from getting tight, allowing you to maintain proper posture and minimize aches and pains.
- Stretching can relieve stress. Stretching relaxes the tense muscles that often accompany stress.
- Stretching may help prevent injury. Preparing your muscles and joints for activity can protect you from injury, especially if your muscles or joints are tight.
The How – Stretching essentials
- Target major muscle groups. When you’re stretching, focus on your calves, thighs, hips, lower back, neck and shoulders. Also stretch muscles and joints that you routinely use at work or play.
- Warm up first. Stretching muscles when they’re cold increases your risk of injury, including pulled muscles. Warm up by walking while gently pumping your arms, or do a favorite exercise at low intensity for five minutes.
- Hold each stretch for at least 30 seconds. It takes time to lengthen tissues safely. Hold your stretches for at least 30 seconds — and up to 60 seconds for a really tight muscle or problem area. That can seem like a long time, so keep an eye on the clock or your watch. Then repeat the stretch on the other side. For most muscle groups, a single stretch is often enough if you hold it long enough.
- Don’t bounce. Bouncing as you stretch can cause small tears in the muscle. These tears leave scar tissue as the muscle heals, which tightens the muscle even further — making you less flexible and more prone to pain.
- Focus on a pain-free stretch. Expect to feel tension while you’re stretching. If it hurts, you’ve gone too far. Back off to the point where you don’t feel any pain, then hold the stretch. STOP if it hurts!!!
- Relax and breathe freely. Don’t hold your breath while you’re stretching. Let IT Go!
Stretch whenever you exercise, two times: Before and After the workout. The phone, internet, meetings can be delayed another 10 mins….
If you don’t exercise regularly, you might want to stretch at least three times a week to maintain flexibility.
If you have a problem area, such as tightness in the back of your leg, you might want to stretch every day or even twice a day. Again, STOP, if it hurts, you experience pain, etc…It is ok to REST your muscles as the body heals itself.
Stretch anytime, anywhere…..in your home, at work or when you’re traveling. If you have a chronic condition or an injury, you may need to alter your approach to stretching, exercise caution. For example, if you have a strained muscle, stretching it like usual may cause further harm. Do not Delay, discuss with your doctor or a physical therapist the best way to stretch.
Last piece of advice – Take heed to the last statement, let me repeat: If You Have A Chronic Condition or An Injury, Seek Advice From A Professional to Prevent Further Injury….Most of All Be Patient With YOU as You Recover.
I invite you to Stretch Your Body!
Be Blessed, Stay Healthy!
See ya!
Dr. Joy
www.drxjoy.com
