Stretching is one of the most overlooked aspects of a workout program and an active lifestyle. The reality is that our body's are designed to move on a near constant basis. But modern lifestyles have drastically changed human behavior and routines.

Hard work has been replaced with sitting at a desk usually in front o a computer or standing in one place like a checkout stand or a customer service desk for hours at a time.

A way to combat this sedentary lifestyle is to get up and MOVE. Take a walk, do some pushups and yes even stretch. And always, always- it is important to stretch your body before, during and after every workout. Stretching will keep your body warm and lubricated and it will keep you injury free.

There are several ways to stretch. One is called static stretching and that is the normal way that most people stretch. See below for this stretch technique.

The other way to stretch is called ballistic stretching. This is the style you see when you watch Olympic swimmers when they swing their arms back and forth very rapidly. Both techniques work but stick mostly to the static technique and then add ballistic occasionally.

Also, stretching: 

·         Reduces muscle tension

·         Increases range of motion

·         Increases flexibility

·         Spend 10 – 30 seconds in each stretch. Don’t bounce.

·         Along with stretching we recommend monthly or bi monthly massage therapy. Deep massage helps the body eliminate lactic acid build up from weight training.

·         I also feel that a good preventative is to schedule chiropractic alignments.

Yoga is also a good fit for stretching.

Namaste

Coach Scott Black

Keeping You Fit and Financially Secure & Reversing Obesity Across America

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