It’s easy to “forget” to stretch. In fact, it’s often overlooked because the results are not as visible as lifting weights or performing cardio-or so we thought. Among the plethora of benefits that can be achieved, stretching leads to better posture, improves muscle development, reduces injury, and has been shown to increase a cheery outlook on life. Stretching increases your blood flow and circulation while sending oxygen to your brain creating a clearer mind and sunnier mood. Especially during these brutal winter months, we can all use a little more sunshine in our lives. So stretch, baby, stretch!
Let’s examine (in a more in depth fashion) a selection of the reasons it’s important to stretch.
Increases range of motion
Stretching increases the range of motion for someone while lifting weights. It also helps to increase range of motion and flexibility in everyday life. You will be more likely to perform things such as the splits or high kicks. And…being limber is sexy.
Improves posture
Chronically tense and tight muscles contribute to poor posture, this affects the functioning of our internal organs and our appearance. Stretching the muscles of the lower back, shoulders and chest can help keep the back in better alignment. The way you walk and carry yourself says a lot about you, show the world how stunning you really are using your nice posture.
Improves muscle development
We all do strength training in hopes of building muscle. Stretching is important because it allows you to move through the full range of movement. Stretching will result in you building full and long muscles instead of them becoming stunted and short. Stunted and short aren’t necessarily the hottest adjectives to put in your bio.
Warms you up
Stretching warms up muscles by increasing blood flow. Increased blood flow provides the muscles with oxygen and nutrients in order to help them to keep going…just like carbs, we all love carbs.
Reduces risk of injury
Stretching gradually elongates the muscles. If you’re more flexible then this means you won’t pull or tear a muscle if you are to slip or trip. It also helps to loosen up the muscle and tendon, preventing anything from being pulled. I pulled a muscle in my neck last semester and had to skip class for two days because I couldn’t sit up straight or look left/right without turning my entire body. It was not a good look.
In the event that you would love to start stretching (which I hope you do) but have no idea where to start, I have posted a video below that includes a wide range of stretches. If you do it from start to finish you will have successfully stretched out your entire body. Try to note how you feel afterwards. (Amazing is the answer I’m hoping for.) I like it because there is a narrator that talks you through the routine while you stretch along with the model.
HippieGymRat 