We have always heard about how we ‘should’ workout. But the importance of stretching goes beyond doing it after or even before a workout. Daily stretching is to be incorporated into your daily routine to really see the effects of it and to protect your body. After each workout, you are to especially ensure you get a proper stretch in.
Basics of stretching
The most basic part of stretching to remember is to stretch the muscle groups that you use consistently every day. This includes your calves, hamstrings, hip flexors, shoulders, and back. If you do a lot of computer work, stretch your neck and shoulders a couple times a day to keep tension down.
If you’re a beginner, you can take a look at fitness websites, like 30 Days Fitness Challenge to learn and see the proper ways to perform all the different kinds of stretches, such as ab stretches for example. You’ll want to be sure you hold proper form in order to get the most out of your stretch and avoid injury.
- After each workout, take at least 5-10 minutes to cool down and stretch.
- To avoid injury and get an effective stretch in, hold your stretch carefully for 30 seconds.
- Ensure proper form for each stretch and don’t push yourself too far.
- Don’t expect extravagant progress after the first stretch. It takes consistency to build flexibility, but you will notice the difference shortly even in terms of how you carry your body.
Why is it so crucial to stretch after each workout?
When you workout, you are taxing your muscles and tissues and you want your body to be in the best form to support body with this exercise and your daily life in general. Regular stretching keeps your muscles long, flexible and healthy, which means your workout routine won’t tax your muscles themselves but rather give them a proper workout.
Here are just some of the benefits of stretching:
- Reduce muscle soreness
If you workout and skip the post-workout stretch, your body doesn’t get the opportunity to stretch its muscles out to their original length and reduce muscle soreness. So take the time for a proper stretch and you get reduced muscle soreness.
- Increase range of motion
Stretching is how you can increase your range of motion. After you get blood flow really moving with a workout, an effective stretch is easier with more pliable tissue.
- Increase body awareness
When you stretch and breathe through your stretches, you feel your breath move through your body and it really brings you to be in tune with your body.
- Calm your body and mind after a workout
A workout pushes you mentally and physically, so a nice stretch afterwards gives you a chance to calm your body and mind and continue with your day-to-day in a healthy space.
The risk of not stretching correctly
Tight muscles increase the risk of injury and overall discomfort. It can lead to back problems, joint strains, muscle strains, and muscle tension that you can’t shake unless you stretch properly.
Stretching is one of the most effective ways you can benefit your physical (and mental!) health. Add in some breathing exercises as you relax and let your body ease into each stretch, boosting the efficacy of your workout.
