Stretching can be just as important as the body of the workout. Stop thinking of stretching as the optional ending to a workout! It should be included every single time you work up a sweat.
Here are a few reasons why you should be stretching:
- Lengthen your muscles-During a workout your muscles contract. Stretching helps to elongate those muscles to prevent them from shortening or bulking up.
- Increase flexibility-Flexibility can help you perform better during your workout. Having a bigger range of motion can help you push a little harder, and it is also safer for your joints.
- Get happy-Stretching gets your blood flowing and increases circulation, which causes more oxygen to go to your brain. More oxygen in your brain can lead to a happier mood and a sharper mind.
- Stay balanced-Good balance can improve posture and core strength.
- Relieve tension- Stretching can help with muscle tightness. Relieving tightness and tensions can also help to ease stress.
Some tips while stretching:
- Don't forget to breathe! If you are trying to get deeper into a stretch take an inhale through your nose and on the exhale push into the stretch.
- If a stretch hurts then back off a little- stretching should not be painful. You can't achieve flexibility over night, so just take your time and ease into stretches.
Happy Wednesday, and Namaste Y'all!
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