Regardless of your physical activity level, stretching can be key to avoiding injury.
You don’t have to be prepping for a marathon to implement stretching in your daily life. When you stretch, you put your muscles to work and help your body improve its range of motion. While this can prevent injuries later in life, improper stretching can leave you in a world of hurt. Follow our tips to stretch with safety in mind.
- Stretching should be 2nd. You’ve probably heard that you should stretch before and after a workout, but don’t start there. Go for an easy walk or bike ride 1st to get your muscles warmed up.
- Breathe in, breathe out. Deep breaths while you stretch are important, but don’t forget to release them. The oxygen needs to go to your muscles; holding in your breath stops the process.
- Stay within reach. If you feel pain while stretching, listen to your body and stop immediately, or reduce the stretch. Tension is normal; pain is not.
- Avoid the twist and shout. You’ll have to ignore The Beatles here. If you stretch to lift something at home like a box or laundry basket, twisting your body might leave you shouting for a doctor. Instead, begin by squatting, then use your legs — not your arms or back — to complete the lift.
- Consistency is key. Proper stretching is something you must practice continually to avoid injuries. Even doing a little bit each day or a few times per week can help keep your body ready for whatever the day might bring!
