Exercise For Flexibility: Keeping The Groove To Move

Ever had difficulty in reaching for that pen just across the desk? Is reaching for the TV remote just too much effort for you? Do you dread any activity that involves complex movements? If your answer to all these questions is a resounding YES, then you may have flexibility issues. Given that humans were designed to be graceful, lithe creatures, flexibility should actually be inherent in all of us. There are those, however, who may have developed injuries or conditions that inhibit flexibility, although this does not necessarily mean that person can never be flexible again. As with most things, flexibility can be learned and improved through practice, which is why there are activities that maximize on exercise for flexibility.

Just how important is flexibility? If this question persists in your mind, here are a few but immensely important points why flexibility is important for people:

• Improvement of overall physical performance and activity
• Significantly reduce chances and risk of injury
• Reduce chronic joint and lower back pains
• Improve blood circulation all over the body
• Improve bodily coordination
• Exercise becomes easier
• Reduce overall stress
• Eliminate clumsiness

So what should I consider when stretching?

While many might think that stretching is a warm up exercise for more strenuous activity, stretching in itself needs a warm up before it is begun. Also, not knowing the correct way to stretch could result in pain and injury. Here are some pointers:

• Remember to warm muscles, tendons, and ligaments before doing serious stretching. Going straight to stretching without warming up could lead to muscle tears.
• Be gradual and gentle in stretching, it’s not a race.
• Extend muscles and joints slowly, then hold briefly in the stretched position, allowing the muscles to lengthen slowly and properly.
• Stretch only to the point where you are capable. If stretching becomes painful, your muscles are past their limits.
• Stretch slowly and in a fluid motion, do not jar, bounce, or jerk, as these actually shorten muscles instead of lengthening them.
• While stretching, it is also a good time to prepare yourself mentally for what you intend to do.
• Regulate your breathing for good, rhythmic air intake.
• Consider talking to your physician or physical therapist before engaging in any form of stretching, to know what is appropriate for you.
• Remember that in stretching, you should only feel a mild pulling sensation, not pain or numbness.
• Do not “lock” your joints when stretching. You may hold your arms and legs straight, but do not hold them tightly in a rigid position.

 

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