Taking Time to Stretch
We watch in awe as dancers and performers bend and twist their bodies into elegant shapes, all the while wondering how they do this without breaking in half. The answer lies in flexibility. Flexibility, in technical terms, is the ability to move joints and muscles through their full range of motion. As an infant you had the ability to lie on your back while simultaneously touching your toes to your head. Years pass and merely touching your toes with your hands may now prove to be a challenge. People who regularly practice exercises of flexibility remain quite flexible into old age. Activities that lengthen your muscles, such as stretching, yoga, tai chi, or Pilates work well.
The benefits of taking the time to stretch do not stop there. Incorporating movements that increase your flexibility can:
- improve your circulation;
- increase your range of motion;
- boost coordination;
- prevent injuries;
- relieve stress and loosen tight, tense muscles; and
- promote good posture.
How Much Is Enough?
The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recommends engaging in activities that promote flexibility 2-3 times a week. If you are already getting in 2-3 days of strength and endurance exercise each week, kudos to you. By adding a few stretching exercises on to this while muscles are warm will ensure you are taking a balanced approach to getting fit. It looks like this whole campaign to get out and move is contagious and here to stay! Finding creative ways to sneak a lunchtime yoga class in or getting up to move during the pristine morning hours may leave you wondering why you didn't realize all of the benefits of exercise sooner.