Helpful Tips for Stretching Safely Before and After Working Out
Perhaps you’ve heard about the many benefits of regular and proper stretching. Any stretching coach will tell you that maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle does not exclude stretching regularly. Aside from being the best way to improve your flexibility, stretching can also increase your range of motion, enhance your overall performance, alleviate muscle soreness, and reduce your risk of injury. The question is, how can you be sure that you’re stretching correctly and safely?
How to Stretch Properly and Safely
Stretch Daily
Did you know that you need to stretch your muscles for at least 10 minutes every day? When you do this, you’ll notice a significant improvement in your sense of balance, spatial awareness, and mobility.
Talk to a Doctor Before Stretching
This is especially true if you’ve recently suffered an injury. The doctor has to determine if your injury was a pulled, overstretched, or torn muscle. If this is your case, you’re not supposed to stretch the affected area to prevent further damage.
Warm-Up Before You Stretch
The best way to warm your muscles up before you stretch them is to perform gentle and low-impact exercises such as walking. In case you’re not aware, stretching cold muscles could increase your risk of injury.
Stretch to the Point of Mild Discomfort
The last thing you need is to overstretch your muscles. Although stretching shouldn’t be painful, it should be done to the point of mild discomfort. Once your muscles feel comfortable, you can add small increments to the stretch. If it hurts, stop stretching.
Breathe Normally
It would be best if you weren’t doing special breathing exercises or holding your breath while you’re stretching.
Get Advice from a Stretching Coach!
If you’ve decided to adopt a healthy lifestyle change, getting advice from a stretching coach should be your first business order. Book your FREE 30-minute stretch at Stretch Zone today and experience the best stretch ever!
