How to Properly Stretch Your Body Before a Workout

Name one thing we automatically do after waking up. We stretch. All of us do it. Even cats and dogs do it. We do it frequently, sometimes unconsciously, and in various positions especially waking from sleep or after being in one position for some time. Experts say we should stretch in opposite ways from positions we spend in during the day to condition our body's muscles and be more limber. So, if you spend most of your day hunched over a computer, spend a few minutes with your head, neck, and shoulders arched backwards during breaks or after work.

Stretching is the best way to improve posture and flexibility. The more flexible you are, the better your body can resist injuries. It is also so natural that you can invent your own stretches or easily learn techniques from books or videos. It is so convenient that you can do it anytime or anywhere you feel like it. Stretching is the most natural form of nonaerobic exercise and an important component to aerobic conditioning. You will notice that all exercise, whether it is in a gym class or a video workout, start with stretching. Here are some points to remember to get the best stretch.

Warm up. You see this at the start of exercise routines. Do some walking or marching in place for 10 to 15 minutes before stretching to avoid injury. Your muscles will tend to be brittle and will not bend easily without proper warm up. Think of your muscles as pasta, when it is uncooked, it tends to break easily when you try to bend them, but when cooked, it becomes soft and pliable.

Drink up. Take in lots of water before, during, and after stretching. You might be dehydrated if your muscles feel too tight. Fluids will help keep your muscles loose.

Hold that pose. Use a timer to help you count the seconds accurately while holding your stretches. You should be able to hold your pose for 20 to 30 seconds to get maximum effect. It is also important to breathe deeply while stretching, Hold your pose but do not hold your breath. In addition, stretching in front of a mirror is a good idea to ensure you are doing your poses right.

No pain. You should only feel slightly uncomfortable while stretching; it should not be painful. A good sign to know if you are doing your poses right is to feel a pulling sensation throughout your muscles that subsides after a few seconds. Otherwise, adjust your position or move on to another stretch.

Bear these in mind while doing your favorite moves and you are well on your way to a more flexible and limber body.

Article Resource: Elena Bautista