Stretching after a workout is so important, but often overlooked. We get it, you're busy and you just spent 30+ minutes exercising, it’s hard to take another 5 to 10 minutes to stretch. Here’s why it's so important to take the time:
- Stretching reduces muscle tension
- It improves range of motion and helps increase circulation
- Stretching helps your muscles recover faster so you’ll feel less sore
- Helps keep you injury free
Here are a few of our favorite post-workout stretches.
Get The Moves:
Flexor Stretch
- Kneel on the floor and extend your right leg out behind you so the top of your foot is on the floor.
- Shift your weight forward until you feel a stretch in your hip.
- Hold for 15 seconds and repeat on the other side.
Seated Forward Fold
- Sit on the floor with your legs straight out in front of you. Point your toes to the sky and flex your feet towards you.
- Raise your arms above your head and lengthen your spine.
- As you exhale, slowly bend forward at the hips, reaching your hands towards your feet.
- Bend as far as you can go. If you can, hold your feet with your hands.
- Hold for 30 to 60 seconds.
Pretzel Stretch
- Lie on your back and bend your legs with feet resting on the ground.
- Bring one leg toward and bring it toward you.
- Raise and straighten your other leg toward the sky.
- Put the foot of your bent leg on the knee of your straight leg.
- Pull your straight leg toward your chest, allowing it to bend.
- Hold for 30 to 60 seconds and repeat on the other side.
Cobra
- Lie face down on the floor and place your hands on either side of your head.
- Slowly push your body upwards so your upper body is lifting off the floor and your hips are still on the ground.
- If you have more flexibility, try straightening your arms. Hold for 10 to 15 seconds.
Chest Stretch
- Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart.
- Lift your chest and relax your shoulders.
- Clasp your hands behind your back and slowly raise your arms as far as possible.
- Hold for 10 to 15 seconds.
Standing Quad Stretch
- Stand on one leg and pull the other foot up behind you.
- Keep your knees together and push your hips forward to increase the stretch.
- Hang on to a chair or counter if you need assistance with balance.
- Lower your leg to the floor and repeat with the opposite leg.
Source: www.eatingbirdfood.com