TriVita Health -- It’s No Stretch of the Imagination

TriVita Health -- It’s No Stretch of the Imagination
Flexibility plays a large role in your overall health

You often hear that you should stretch before and after exercise.  However, it’s becoming increasingly clear that standalone stretching is the most important type of stretching you can do.

Regular stretching lengthens your muscles and increases your range of motion.  This is called flexibility.  Plus, it can also help:

• Reduce the risk of injury

• Increase balance

• Improve coordination

• Promote circulation

• Improve posture

• Reduce stress.

A recent study showed that stretching can even help improve strength and muscle endurance.  Researchers at Louisiana State University divided 38 mostly sedentary people into two groups.  Over 10 weeks, one group didn’t do any stretching; the other group did leg stretches for 40 minutes a few times per week.  Not only did the stretching group increase their flexibility, but they also increased their strength and muscular endurance.

But don’t think the benefits of stretching are restricted to the exercise arena; flexibility can mean an easier time picking something off the floor or reaching for something on a high shelf.  Just be sure to follow this list of stretching do’s and don’ts.

Stretching do’s and don’ts

Do:

• Consult your healthcare provider before beginning a stretching program, especially if you have had hip replacement surgery

• Warm up before stretching to reduce your risk of injury

• Try to stretch for 20 minutes at least three times per week

• Stretch after exercise to help restore muscle to its resting state

• Stretch all muscle groups including those in the back, chest, shoulders, neck, legs and arms

• Hold each stretch for 10 to 30 seconds.

Don’t:

• Stretch to the point of pain; you may feel discomfort but pain is a warning sign

• Stretch before warming up

• Bounce while you stretch; this can lead to injury

• Twist your spine or overextend your neck

• Hold your breath while stretching

• Jerk into position; move slowly.

Posted by:
Terry L. Allison, Sr.
TriVita
Independent Business Affiliate
13134349
Skype: allisonmarketinggroup

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