It’s all too easy to focus on your workout and forget to stretch. And stretching is not something your doctor is likely to discuss with you. But taking time to become more flexible allows you to warm your muscles up and cool them down will have a beneficial impact on your body. The flexibility that you gain will help improve your balance, prevent aches, and reduce the risk of injuries.
Here are a few ways to become more flexible.
TIP 1: DO QUAD STRETCHES
Quad stretches can help your posture. Plus, they can help with back and knee pain. How do you do a quad stretch?
- Stand on one leg. If you need support, hold onto something solid, such as a wall or chair. You can also touch your belly button with your opposite hand to help balance.
- Bend the lifted knee of the leg you are not standing on, and move your heel toward your buttocks.
- With the hand belonging to the opposite leg of the one you are standing on, reach for the ankle of the raised leg.
- Stand up straight and pull in your abdominal muscles. When you hold your leg in the bent position, you will feel a slight pull along the front of your thigh and hip.
- Breathe and hold the stretch for 30 seconds. Release and repeat on the opposite leg. Stretch each leg one to five times per session.