Compared to other aspects of fitness, stretching may seem rather boring. Stretching should never be overlooked, you want to avoid tight muscles after all! It can help increase your flexibility, increase your balance, and overall strength. A regular stretching routine can aid your body in recovering from strenuous exercise. Also, it can increase the effectiveness and efficiency of your workout. Although it may not seem like there’s instant gratification or result from stretching, rest assured, it has excellent long-term benefits.
1. Child’s Pose
How To: Start by sitting on your knees. Slowly reach both of your arms forward and touch the ground in front of you. Your head show be between your extended arms. Hold for a few seconds and repeat.
2. Downward Dog
How To: Start on your hands and knees and stretch your elbows and relax your back. Plant your hands on the floor and push as you tuck your toes and lift your knees off the floor. Make sure you’re lifting through your pelvis.
3. Standing Hamstring Stretch
Start by standing up straight and slowly bend at the hips. Bring your right foot forward in a straight line and bend your left knee slightly which should be directly under you. Hold for a few seconds and repeat with the other leg.
4. Triceps Stretch
How To: Stand tall with your feet hip-width apart and arms extended overhead. Bend your left elbow and reach your left hand to touch the center of your back. Reach overhead with the right hand and grab your elbow tightly. Hold for a few seconds, switch arms and repeat.
5. Cobra
How To: Lay on your stomach and place your hands palm down directly below your shoulders. Slowly push up and hold for a few seconds. You should feel the stretch in your lower back.
