How to Stretch Your Muscles for Fitness
There is a general theory that stretching before an exercise reduces the probability of injuries and soreness. Nevertheless, a number of researches have been carried out and none proved a direct benefit from the ritual. Moreover, a few showed that stretching may harm athletic performance. Anyhow, the widespread notion is still the same that stretching should be done before any activity. Therefore, it can be seen that it is beneficial in most cases, as we all know that we should stretch and that it makes us feel good about ourselves most of the times.
Instructions
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1
Is stretching important?
It is a treat for your body if you stretch. Constant physical activity is important in maintaining shape of the body. Experts suggest stretching every major muscle for two to three times a week for a minute per exercise. Several researches have proved that regular exercises aid in keeping top shape of your body as you grow old.
Regular work routine helps prevent chronic problems, and if you suffer from back pains because of a desk job, stretches opposite to that can ease the pain. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and knees bent a little. Move forward, putting your hands slightly above your knees. Round your back to support the chest and the shoulders should be forward. Then go backwards, so the chest opens and move the shoulders back to the original position. Do this a couple of times. -
2
Is static stretch necessary?
This is not required. Stretching the muscles to their maximum and maintaining that position for a bit is not harmful at all, but you should not overdo it to the extent that it hurts. Studies reveal that an energetic stretch is very efficient and beneficial if you do it before an activity. The dynamic stretch helps the muscle to move freely in a free manner. -
3
Do you need to stretch before exercise?
It is not that crucial. There is not much evidence that stretching before an activity reduces the probability of injuries or increases your performance. However, a few studies show that this manual helps you in keeping fit and raises your performances. Interestingly, no conclusion can be derived from the various researches carried out in this regard.
Although, static stretching before exercise has proved to worsen performance. For example, sprint can be reduced as the muscles get tired from the extreme stretching. A good warm-up is a normal intensity workout.
