In American culture there’s commonly an attitude that stretching is more a woman’s type of exercise than a man’s. That’s a flawed point of view. Without ease of use, what good is strength? The best athletes are almost always people who stand out as having the kind of quickness and agility that requires a flexible musculature (fitness habit web site).Stretching is an important component of exercise that is often overlooked. Many people seem to believe that stretching is a waste of time or do not deem it as important as the work-out they are about to begin; this belief can be no farther from the truth.
During a work-out, whether it is cardiovascular or strength training, your muscles are being put under stress. When a muscle is put under stress, the fibers contract and shortens to respond to the loading force until enough tension builds up and the muscle begins to return to its normal, relaxed, length. Because of this phenomenon, it is extremely important to thoroughly stretch your muscles before and after engaging in any athletic activity.
Stretching is a very important maintenance exercise for weight bearing muscles. Although stretching is very important to those who lead an active lifestyle, it also has excellent benefits for those who are not as active. Stretching has proven to decrease muscle stiffness, improve muscle tone, increase range of motion (flexibility), improve circulation, reduce risk of injury, decrease lower back pain, improve posture, aid in the management of stress, and improve muscle efficiency and overall body performance.
In order for stretching to be efficient, it must be performed properly. Before beginning a stretching routine, the muscles should be properly warmed-up. This can be done with a low intensity exercise such a brisk walk, cycling, or stair climbing. Once the muscles are warmed-up, simple start up stretches can begin. Start of stretches can be done without a partner such as: sit and reach, arm crossover, hamstring pull, and etc.
A proper stretch should be done by only one major muscle group at a time and should never cause pain. Stretching to the point of pain can cause damage to your tendons, ligaments, and the muscle being stretched. Although many are taught at a young age to count while stretching, it is more important to hold the stretch until the muscle feels relaxed as opposed to holding it for a particular period of time. This will ensure that the muscle is fully stretched.
So, whether you are a seasoned athlete or an amateur out to make positive life changes in your body, never forget the importance of stretching. You will look better, feel better, and make more progress with your workouts. Plus, you will reap the benefits of good flexibility, and a sound mind. Remember, “A few minutes of stretching before you play can save you a lifetime of pain.”
Additional information may be gained by contacting WWW.benefit-physical-fitness.com, or the Owens-Franklin Health Center at (936) 857-2511.