Stretching Counts
from the Admiral"When I initially started stretching, I was at a loss about what movements to do other than the OARS stretches. Since then I've learned about several stretch movements and want to share them with you."
Stretching counts as exercise because of the many fitness benefits reaped by properly stretching. All stretching should be done slowly while breathing deeply -- no bouncing. Here are some key benefits of stretching; increasing your flexibility:
REDUCE TENSION IN MUSCLES & HELPS MUSCLES RELAX -Many studies have shown that increased flexibility can significantly reduce aches throughout the body - an issue that is significantly on the rise with today's sedentary lifestyles!
IMPROVE FLOW OF OXYGEN AND INTAKE OF ESSENTIAL NUTRIENTS -Stretching allows the muscles to relax. Muscles that are instead always tense tend to cut off their own circulation, which can result in lack of oxygen and nutrients
HELP REDUCE AND MANAGE STRESS -With flexibility comes a significant reduction in the "tension" in your body - you will feel significantly less stressed, which is essential as stress is a leading contributor to chronic diseases.
IMPROVE YOUR POSTURE-Stretching your lower back, shoulders and chest properly helps to align your back and improve your posture - with the prevalence of jobs confining people to desks or standing and leaning much of the day, this is also crucial.
PROVIDE BETTER BLOOD CIRCULATION -The act of stretching increases blood supply to muscles and joints, improving blood circulation throughout the entire body.
SLOW THE DEGENERATION OF YOUR JOINTS -Stretching helps to increase your range of motion and may slow the degeneration of joints.
HELP TO ELIMINATE OR AVOID LOW BACK PAIN -Flexibility in the hips, hamstrings, and pelvic muscles helps to remove stress from your spine that causes the lower back pain.
HELP TO ELIMINATE PAINS FROM STRESS ON MUSCLES - Streching makes muscles flexible and loose, reducing the shortening and tightening effect from working your muscles hard … and the associated aches and pains from it.
IMPROVE CLARITY AND FOCUS - For many of the reasons noted above, such as improved blood and oxygen circulation and reduced body tension, you will experience greater mental clarity and focus with stretching.
MAY REDUCE YOUR RISK OF INJURY -Flexible muscles are not as likely to become injured from extended movements. Studies conflict on whether stretching before exercise is truly beneficial, but most fitness and sports organizations recommend pre- and post-exercise stretching.
For additional information -- Google: Stretching Exercises
The following stretching movements, when done slowly, will more than fill up two 15 minute stretch sessions! Enjoy!
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