Importance of Stretching

Over the years I have become more and more aware of how my body reacts and is impacted by so many things. I have become more in tune and have really focused instead on the health of my body instead of what it looks like. With this new awareness, I have become increasingly aware of how to take care of my body after my workouts and discovered this by subsequently not taking care of it and regretting it afterward. Stretching makes such a huge difference in how my body not only recovers but how I am able to move it the rest of the day. If I fail to stretch now I find myself not able to stand up straight or walk the next day, unfortunately this is no over exaggeration. This also impacts my training and activities the rest of the week, so it has become something I have incorporated and have become accustomed to making the time for. 

Stretching not only aids in recovery it helps relax those tightened muscles increasing the blood flow. That blood carries nutrients to muscles to help reduce soreness. I make the time afterward now to always stretch, I will even get up earlier so that I have that time allotted to get it completed. It also helps to improve flexibility which is just another thing that decreases as we age. I’ve also noticed a difference in my posture when I walk and  the way I am sitting. My muscles don’t ache as much or feel as tight, so it allows me to sit up more straight- no slouching. 

 

Keep in mind there is a best time to stretch, stretching should be done when muscles are warmed up. Stretching cold muscles may results in injury. To be most effective if you want to stretch prior to your workout, complete a short walk/jog before vigorous physical activity to warm those muscles up. Often when I see people stretching, I see people bouncing. This could be dangerous; you could slightly tear muscles tightening it further resulting in decreased flexibility and increased soreness. You want to go into a stretch and hold 15-60 seconds and then repeat it 3-4 times. I would recommend stretching 2-3 days/week or after each workout for 5-10 mins to achieve the most benefits. 

 

Stretching gives me a bit more time to focus on my inner self and be alone. I listen to music and zone out before I start my day, it’s a great way to cool down after a workout and prepare myself mentally for the day after the clarity I gained during my workout. Not only does it calm my mind, but also helps me to relieve tension even when I may be tightening from stress. When I was younger I hated stretching and never felt the benefits, but now that I have I simply can’t go back to not doing it.