Pain is usually a sign of improper technique. You should always be sure to stretch every muscle group, while placing your main focus on the muscles that you will be using that day. 

Although it is important to stretch before and after your exercise routine, you should also stretch on the days that you do not workout.  Stretching daily can lead to better flexibility and an increased range of motion.  Stretching can also help relieve or prevent pain.  If there is a certain muscle group that is causing you pain, try incorporating a few stretches into your day to loosen up the area and allow the blood to circulate more.  By increasing the circulation to your muscles you can increase your energy level as well.

To maximize the benefits of your stretching routine, never hold your breath.  Continue to inhale through the nose and exhale through the mouth as you hold out the stretch.  Continuing to breathe throughout the stretch helps oxygen circulate to the muscles resulting in a deeper more effective stretch. 

Below are two common stretches that are very simple to add to your exercise routine.

The hamstring stretch helps to loosen up the leg muscles.  Start by standing with your feet about 6 inches apart.  Bend at the waist and let your arms and upper body hand down towards the floor.  Reach for the floor or grasp the back of the calves and pull your upper body toward them.  You will be able to feel this stretch in your thighs and hamstring area.

The lower back stretch helps to increase the flexibility in your back.  Begin by sitting on the floor with you feet out in front of you.  Bending your knee at a 90 degree angle, cross your right foot over your left leg and place it on your left thigh.  Twist the top of your body to the right while placing your elbow on the outside of the right leg.  Repeat with the other side.

Even if you do not have a regular exercise routine, stretching daily has many benefits.  As our bodies age our muscles tighten and we loose some of the range of motion that we once enjoyed.  Stretching can reverse these signs of aging by continuing to allow you to do the tasks that you are used to.  It doesn’t take a large time commitment, and the benefits far outweigh the effort.  Start small and work your way into more stretches.

Guest Post written by Cody Figgins of Ultimate Fitness Gear, your best source for the Shaun T Insanity Workout.

      

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