Stretching and Its Benefits to Our Bodies

Stretching and its Benefits to our Bodies

Many people wonder about the benefits of stretching. We all know it is good to take a stretch before a long workout. And professional athletes swear by stretching on a regular basis right before practice and also prior to a big game. However, regular stretching is not only beneficial for athletes. Stretching regularly can aid in the prevention of bodily injury that may occur from normal household duties such as bending down to load the dish washer or moving a heavy box upstairs from the basement. 

Making a habit of stretching will help prevent injury.  A great routine to have is creating a morning stretch time right upon waking up or prior to bed each night. This exercise may only take a few minutes. In fact you can set a stretch routine time of 15 minutes a day.

There are several vital stretches that can be done at home. One tool that can be used to assist in at-home stretches is an exercise ball. By utilizing an exercise ball you can perform a whole body stretch right at home! Now let’s discuss a quick daily stretch routine that can be extremely beneficial to your overall health and fitness.

Chest Stretch

To perform chest stretches lay your back onto the ball and then roll your body down until your back is properly supported by the ball. Relax your body and arms, allowing them to fall to the sides. Repeat 3-5 times.

Whole Body Stretch

With your legs held wide, put your hands on the ball and roll the ball outwards, facing the ball and pressing your head against your chest to stretch your hamstring. Repeat 3-5 times.

Back Stretch

While standing in front of the ball place your right hand against it sideways with your thumb pointing outward. Roll the ball towards your left and keep your head straight. Repeat 3-5 times.

Balance with Ball

Standing on your left leg only, hold the exercise ball on top of your head and your right leg straight out behind you. Using slow motions steadily move the ball toward the ground, shifting your left leg behind you, letting the ball assist you in maintaining balance. Now let the ball roll out a bit to lengthen your entire body. Repeat 3-5 times.

Always remember to consult a physician prior to any new workout routine for a proper analysis of preexisting injuries or illnesses that may prevent the new workout.

Reference: http://exercise.about.com/library/blrelaxingstretch.htm