It also gives us the ability to lift more, jump higher and bend more because well stretched muscles actually have greater power when they contract. That is why stretching is important before exercise. Stretching will tone up muscles and trim the body, but for a full health regime, it is important to include aerobic exercise which helps keep the heart muscle exercised.
Other benefits of stretching include:
? Circulation ? Stretching increase blood flow to your muscles. The better circulation in your muscles the quicker injured muscles will recover.
? Posture ? Regular stretching prevents your muscles from tightening up, thereby allowing you to have proper posture.
? Stress ? Stretching relaxes your tense muscles if you are under stress.
? Injury Protection ? Stretching prepares your muscles for activities which can protect you from injury.
? Flexibility ? By stretching you are becoming more flexible which will aid in perform normal daily routines like lifting, bending or running.
Important tips to remember when stretching:
It is important to warm up first before stretching. You can warm up by walking while slowly pumping your arms, or do an low keyed exercise for about 5 minutes.
Don't bounce ? It can actually hurt or tear your muscle.
Hold each stretch for 30 seconds. It takes time to stretch a muscle and 60 seconds, depending on the muscle tightness, maybe necessary.
If it hurts when stretching you are doing too much. Stretching should be pain free.
And finally, breathe while you are stretching, don't hold your breathe and enjoy.
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