Think about all the moments during the day when you feel like you could use a good stretch. Maybe it is when you are about to get out of bed, maybe it is when you get out bed, maybe after sitting a long time at your desk, maybe after a long run, whatever it may be our body wants to be stretched.
There are many factors that can limit or enhance an everyday movement or a movement during an exercise, but that is where stretching comes in. If the muscles around the joints in the body aren’t flexible, then it is difficult to move efficiently. When your body is difficult to move, then that can prevent you from doing the full range of motion in exercises, it could cause injury or even keep you from progressing with your fitness goals.
Stretching is a vital part of your fitness routine. It should be taken more seriously than it is in the fitness industry and by those that workout all the time (or don’t). Really your body welcomes stretches whether you had an intense workout or not. Here are 5 stretches your body would love every day.
Downward Dog
A yogi’s pride and joy, this pose focus a lot on hip and shoulder mobility while stretching your hamstrings, deltoids, and lats.
Cat-Cow
Another yogi favorite, this stretch does wonders if you feel love back stiffness and need to open up your chest. This pose will also encourage blood flow and more mobility in your spine.
Standing Side Bend
Raising your arm up and over your head, you will lengthen your body through your side as you stretch your lats, hips, and obliques.
Child’s Pose
This stretch is a crowd favorite, as it is super calming, works well for recovery, and stretches the low back, lats, and shoulders.
Seated Figure 4
This stretch works wonders for alleviating tightness in the glutes and the hard-to-reach piriformis.
