Did you know that regular stretching is just as important as regular exercises?
We all actually know we should stretch, but many of us overlook this and choose to get on with the main exercise instead. Perhaps though the part of the problem is that we don’t have too much time for stretching before exercise, or we are not educated quite enough on the reasons we should be stretching.
Here are the reasons why it’s important to stretch:
It reduces injury
Stretching reduces the chance of injury by gradually elongating the muscle. If you’re more flexible, it means that you don’t pull or tear a muscle if you are to slip or trip as your body is capable of reaching that position. In short, stretching also helps to limber up the muscle and tendon and thereby prevent a pulled muscle.
It warms you up
Stretching can be used as a way to warm up the muscles and it will increase the flow of blood. This provides the muscles with oxygen supply as well as nutrients in order to help them to keep going.
It enables flexibility
This is probably the most obvious benefit of stretching—it is improving flexibility and range of motion. An effective flexibility training program can improve your physical performance and help reduce your risk of injury. By improving your range of motion, your body requires less energy to make the same movements and you also will have more flexible joints, which then lessening the likelihood of injuries during workouts or daily activities.
It increases stamina
Stretching loosens your muscles and tendons which relieves muscle fatigue and increases blood flow. The longer you exercise, the more energy you be burn, typically causing to grow fatigued. While stretching, you can delay the onset of muscle fatigue by ensuring oxygen is flowing through your blood, which thereby increasing your endurance.
It increases range of motion
Stretching increases the range of motion in general. This means that you will be more likely to perform things such as the splits or high kicks easier. It’s highly useful in a range of different athletic and sporting events, and many athletes practice stretching for this reason.
It improves muscle development
If you’re exercising with the hope of building muscle, then stretching is very important. Stretching enables you to move through the full range of movement. This results in building your full and long muscles instead of them becoming stunted and short.
It improves energy levels
If you always feel low in energy, or have trouble staying awake during your long day, it might help to get out of your seat and do a few good stretches for a boost of energy. Muscles tighten when we get tired and that makes us feel even more lethargic, so feel free to stand up and do some stretches. It will help you to quickly and efficiently revitalize your energy levels.
The surya namaskar or sun salutation yoga routine is probably the best full body stretch routine you can practice every morning.
