by Anonymouse

Created on: September 11, 2008   Last Updated: September 17, 2008

Stretching is better for the soul than chicken noodle soup. It reduces muscle tension, increases circulation, improves muscle coordination, and helps boost energy levels. Increased flexibility of the joints and limbs even makes injury less likely. On top of everything else, stretching after a workout helps decrease muscle pain. Forget being sore, exhausted, and tense! It's easy to see why people who stretch on a daily basis are generally happier than those who choose not to.

Stretching lengthens muscle fibers. First, segments called sarcomeres are stretched, which elongates protein units called myofilaments. Soon enough, the sarcomeres reach their final resting point, meaning they can stretch no further. Connective tissue is the back-up that aligns itself with tension caused from stretching. It covers the parts that the sarcomeres can't, helping the muscle to become more flexible with every stretching session.

Stretching is easy, and so is finding time to do it every day. It doesn't require fancy equipment or a quick change into gym clothes. It takes so little energy that chances are you won't even break a sweat! Stretching habits can be slowly worked into a multi-tasking routine. Instead of sitting still while watching television or talking on the phone, stand up and start getting flexible. You will feel the positive difference in no time.

Following a few guidelines will make stretching simpler and safer. Warming up is important since it gets blood circulating. Besides, warm muscles are the easiest to stretch. Walking in place or around the block for five minutes is a great warm-up exercise. After warming up, remember that the static stretch is the best method out there. Stretch for up to thirty seconds so that you can feel tension - not pain. Keep in mind that, though tempting, the ballistic stretching (bouncing) is not effective or safe. Also, make sure not to hold your breath while stretching.

Exercises to get you started:

Ankle Stretch: Rotate each ankle by drawing large circles with your heel or big toe.

Quadriceps Stretch: Hold your foot near your buttocks and pull. Hold your left leg with your right hand and vice versa.

Upper Trapezius Stretch: Facing forward, push your head toward one shoulder, then the other.

Shoulder Stretch: Pull your upper arm in toward your body.

Side Stretch: Place one arm behind your head. Grab your elbow and pull.

Toe Touch: Keep your legs close together and reach for your toes.

Enjoy being a flexible person in more ways than one!

Learn more about this author, Anonymouse.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.