vendredi 22 novembre 2013

Stretch Because It's Good for You! 5 Reasons to Loosen Those Muscles


Help reduce your risk of injury



A flexible muscle is more likely to be prepared for physical activity and therefore, is less likely to become injured by extensive movements. A stretch acts as a signal to muscles that they are about to be worked, and with it comes increased blood flow that helps to warm muscles and joints in preparation for extension. This warmth acts as a "lubricant" that helps to decrease resistance on muscles throughout the following physical activity, allowing for an overall greater range of motion in both muscles and joints. Injuries happen most frequently when improper or excessive force is applied on a muscle or joint. A flexible body translates to much more efficiency in overall performance by allowing for a wider range of motion.



Relieve post-exercise aches and pains



Exercise activates the production of lactic acid in your muscles, and when it builds up too much, the result is muscle soreness and fatigue. Stretching muscles helps to diffuse this build-up of lactic acid and helps to ease the tense pains that can further result in an uncomfortable shortening and tightening effect on the muscles (think of the feeling that you have after a tough workout while, after sitting for a long period of time, you attempt to stand quickly-ouch!). When muscles are stretched while still warm from activity, circulation is also increased; meaning oxygen is increased, which translates to less pain as well. In addition to overall pain relief, stretching the hamstrings, hip flexors, and pelvic muscles can help to relieve stress on the lumbar (lower) spine. This can assist in the reduction of extremely common low-back pain.



Decrease muscle stiffness and increase range of motion



Stretching greatly improves the overall efficiency of joints by prepping the muscle for movement; when the muscle is prepared (loosened), less energy will be required to move it through a wider range of motion. Joints can essentially erode themselves when they have a limited range of motion, so this is extremely beneficial in the long run. Stretching also helps to ease tension on and within muscles, meaning that well stretched limbs assist in easing stress on the body (and person) as a whole. A stiff body can additionally translate to poor posture-so stretching the muscles of the lower back, shoulders and chest allows for better spinal alignment and overall improved posture.



Promote circulation



Stretching promotes an increased blood supply to muscles and joints, and this results in more efficient nutrient transportation and blood circulation throughout the body. When muscles are habitually tense, this efficiency is disrupted, resulting in a lack of oxygen and limited distribution of essential nutrients. This lack of nourishment can cause waste by-products to build up within muscle tissue, resulting in the familiar achy muscle stiffness. By stretching, you allow for an increase in blood circulation that enables muscles to avoid the dreaded tense, stiff and achy muscles that are common in the hours and days after strenuous activity.



Improve mind-body connection



Workouts are greatly enhanced by a strong mind-body connection, and stretching is the best way to improve upon the ability of your mind and body to sync together to your benefit. When you focus on breathing into each stretch, you allow your body to release physical tension. This translates to a release of emotional tension, and it is on this premise that the mind-body connection really thrives. Stretching can allow an individual to connect with each joint and muscle through breath and extension, maintaining a focus on correct posture, duration, and of course, that amazing feeling of release at the end.


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