Whenever you start any exercise routine, fitness instructors would always tell you to do some stretching first. This is a basic step regardless of how simple or intense your exercise would be.
In fact even if you’re not going to engage in any physical fitness activity but just want to relax and take off the aches from your body, doing some simple stretching exercises can already be a big help.
So why is stretching very important to the body? What does it do and how does it help improve the body?
As people grow old, the muscles normally tighten and thereby limit the range of movements that we can do. If they are not loosened or relaxed, a person may find it difficult to perform his usual tasks and activities.
With stretching, the muscles are elongated which helps in doing things much easier. It also reduces muscle tension, increase one’s range of movement, improves muscular coordination, increases blood
circulation to the different parts of the body and enhances energy levels.
Regardless of age and flexibility, stretching is good for everybody. Experts recommend this should be part of a daily routine whether a person does regular exercise or not.
Stretching also benefits people who work long hours sitting in front of a desk. By doing some simple stretching moves even just involving your hands, one can be greatly relieved of back, neck and hand pain.
For those who engage in workouts and fitness trainings, stretching after your exercises also has its advantages. One is able to prevent muscle soreness and ensure that the muscles and tendons are in good
shape.
Stretching can make you feel good so don’t ever forget to do it every day when you wake up, in the middle of doing your chores and before you hit the sack.
Photo via fitsugar.com
Originally posted on November 20, 2012 @ 11:05 am