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 WHO SHOULD STRETCH Everyone can learn to stretch, regardless of age or flexibility. Whether you sit at a desk or are a star athlete the same techniques of stretching apply. WHEN TO STRETCH OR WORK ON FLEXIBILITY Stretching/Flexibility can be done at any time you feel like it. Stretch before and after physical activity, but also stretch at various times of the day - to release nervous tension, after sitting or standing for a long time, or when you feel stiff are just a few examples. WHY STRETCH Stretching/Flexibility relaxes your mind and tunes up your body, should be part of your daily life. You will find that regular stretching/flexibility exercises will do the following: Reduce muscle tension and make the body feel more relaxed. Help coordination by allowing for freer and easier movement.Increase range of motion. Help prevent injuries such as muscle strains. (A strong, flexible, pre-stretched muscle resists stress better than a strong, stiff, unstretched muscle.) Make strenouous activities like running, skiing, tennis, swimming and cycling easier because it prepares you for activity; it's a way of signaling the muscles that they are about to be used.Helps maintain your current level of flexibility, so as time passes you do not become stiffer and stiffer. Develop body awareness; as you stretch various parts of the body, you focus on them and get in touch with them.That which we persist in doing becomes easier - not that the nature of the task has changed, but an ability to do it has increased. |
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