“Flexibility”

“Stretching exercises promote flexibility, so you move fluidly”

Denise Austin

 

“Flexibility is the key to stability”

John Wooden

 

Physical fitness is crucial and vital to your overall health yet it is not enough. Research indicates that stretching enhances your flexibility and mobility. According to a Harvard Health education article, “you may think of stretching as something performed only by runners or gymnasts. But we all need to stretch in order to protect our mobility and independence. A lot of people don't understand that stretching has to happen on a regular basis. It should be daily," says David Nolan, a physical therapist at Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital.” The great thing about stretching is that you don’t need a gym membership or hire a trainer to conduct stretching routines, but you would need to know the proper techniques. You can gain the proper techniques for experts such as a trainer, physical therapist or massage therapist. However, if you don’t know anyone in this line of business you can locate proper techniques for creditable online resources. The most important message about stretching is that it keeps your mobile and flex, as you age your muscle shortens and tightens which makes you stiff. Therefore, stretching keeps your muscle lengthen, strong and movable.

According to the Mayo Clinic better flexibility may:

·         Improve your performance in physical activities

·         Decrease your risk of injuries

·         Help your joints move through their full range of motion

·         Increase muscle blood flow

·         Enable your muscles to work most effectively

·         Improve your ability to do daily activities

 

Make a commitment to take 5 to 10 minutes daily to engage in stretching, you will increase your flexibility and mobility. This activity is one of the most beneficial physical activities you can perform as its has great dividends for your health.