Why is stretching important?

Stretching is very important. Why? It keeps the muscle flexible, strong, and healthy. We need the flexibility of the muscle to maintain the range of motion in the joints. Without stretching your muscles can become stiff and weak. It can also increase the risk of causing joint pains, muscle spasms, and strains.

Here are some benefits of stretching:

1. It improves your performance in physical activities
2. Decrease the risk of injuries
3. Improve blood flow to the muscle
4. Improves your posture
5. Increase your flexibility
6. Helps to prevent back pain
7. Stress relief

When should you stretch?

• Stretching should be performed before and after the game, exercise, or practice. Always aim to do 5 to 10 minutes of dynamic stretching before the activity and another 5 to 10 minutes of static stretching after your activity for maximal benefit.
• If you are not into sports/exercising, to keep your body flexible you should stretch at least three times a week for 20-30 minutes for maximal benefit

Dynamic Stretching

• Dynamic stretching is utilized before the activity or workout. It prepares and warms up the muscles and other soft tissue for the activity. Some Examples include

1. Torso Twist
2. Walking Lunge
3. Standing Toe Taps
4. Butt Kicks

Static Stretching

• Static stretching involves moving the muscle to the extent of its range of motion. Static stretching increases flexibility and thus decreases the risk of injury. Some examples are

1. Overhead triceps stretch
2. Quad Stretch
3. Cobra Pose
4. Seated butterfly stretch
5. Hamstring Stretch

Any Questions or still having difficulty/pain, Please call Elite Muscle Recovery 423-664-8452 or click the link below. We would love to help you get back to the activities you were born to do!