 IMPORTANCE
OF STRETCHING
Stretching is one of the most under-rated aspects of health and fitness
and one that many of us choose to ignore; ‘i’ll do it
later’ or ‘I haven’t got time’ are phrases
we hear too often in the gym.
One of the many benefits of stretching is that it helps prevent
injuries while training or simply running for a bus. Stretching
will increase the length of both your muscles and tendons, which
leads to an increased range of movement, meaning your limbs and
joints can move further before an injury occurs.
Proven benefits of stretching:
• Helps prevent injuries
• Relieves soreness from exercise
• Improves blood circulation
• Reduces stress and moodswings
• Increases and releases energy
• Improves concentration levels
When should I stretch?
Muscles are more easily stretched when they are warm. A short warm-up
period of 5 or more minutes of walking, cycling, or jogging will
warm up your muscles enough so that you can stretch them well. It
is best if you can stretch every day. It is especially important
to stretch before and after strength training, running, or participating
in any sport. Stretching after workouts helps to relax the muscles
and reduce soreness.
How should I stretch?
There are several different types of stretch but the safest and
most popular method involves static stretching. With static stretching,
your muscle is slowly lengthened to the point where you feel a mild
stretch. You then hold the position for 15 to 30 seconds and then
slowly release the stretch. The most important rule to follow for
any stretching exercise is that it must not be painful. If you stretch
to the point of pain, the muscle will not relax and might even become
tighter!
To stretch safely follow these rules:
• Never force a stretch - it should always be pain-free.
• Never stretch when your muscles are cold.
• Stretching should be avoided if you have just injured a
muscle or joint and there is noticeable swelling or bruising in
the area.
• Use extra caution if you have osteoporosis or have been
using steroid medicine for a long period of time.
• Avoid stretching in the area of a recent fracture.
What stretches should I do?
After an all over body workout, try to stretch all the major muscles
of the body that have been worked. If you are getting ready for
a certain activity (such as, running, tennis, walking, etc.), make
sure you stretch the areas of your body that will be used in that
activity.
If you are looking to stretch a particular muscle group and are
unsure how, ALWAYS ask an expert.
CALL TODAY ON 
FOR YOUR FREE FITNESS CONSULTATION
|
the
team
site
design & management by arkitex.co.uk
