More than just a workout suggestion, stretching and staying limber is a vital part of getting the most out of your activity and avoiding injury. You wouldn’t take your car on a long drive without making sure it’s in tip-top shape first, right? So before you work up a sweat, work up a stretch.
One important thing to keep in mind is that dynamic stretching is best. What is dynamic stretching? It’s utilizing momentum to propel your muscles into an extended range of motion. Unlike static stretching, where you remain in an almost still position, a dynamic warm up is the best way to get your blood flowing and your heart rate pumping.
Here are some other helpful hints on how to warm up the right way:
Activities like high knees, “butt kicks” and side shuffling are more effective than standing quad stretches for getting your muscles primed for activity. Since your quads originate from above the hip, it’s best to lean back a little bit to get the full benefit if you are doing an upright quad stretch. Also, remember to always grab the ankle and not the toe.
- For hamstrings: The hamstring muscle attaches to your bones below the knee at the back of the leg, so you want to avoid bending them (which ultimately shortens the muscle you’re trying to stretch). When bending at your back, make sure to keep your spine straight like a table to elongate those muscles. Keep your chin up. If you bend down to touch your toes, there’s no need to hover closer than six inches above the ground – unless you’re able to comfortably do so.
- For pectoral muscles: Doing “door stretches” offers the best stretch. Simply place your arms out on either side of you as if you were making a “T” with your body. Then, bend your arms up at your elbows so that they each form a 90 degree angle. In this position, put your arms on either side of a door frame, with your body within the frame’s opening, and walk forward slowly to open up the chest.
- For triceps: Make a gesture like you’re scratching your upper back, and be sure to keep your elbows in for maximum benefit.
- For the torso: The iron cross stretch involves putting your arms out at your sides like a “T” and then rotating at your waist side to side. You can also drop down towards the floor and reach for your toes, one side at a time.
Other great tips to add to your stretching repertoire include:
- Don’t forget to keep breathing throughout your stretch to help keep your muscle tissue oxygenated.
- Hold each stretch between 10 to 20 seconds, aiming for three repetitions of each. If you prefer, you can split your stretching up throughout the day, or use props, like foam rollers, to help ease tension in your muscles and break up knots.
- Don’t forget to listen to your body while stretching, too. Some slight pain is acceptable, but if your muscles start shaking, that’s their warning sign for you to stop.
- And finally, don’t give up. Stretching progress can be slow, so comparing your progress to that of others will only discourage you. Pay attention to your own progress. Seeing your body become more flexible when you previously weren’t limber will help keep you motivated and is the ultimate reward!
Before you start any exercise program, talk to your physician about the program that’s right for you.
If you need a primary care doctor, visit henryford.com/findadoc or call 1-800-HENRYFORD (436-7936) to make an appointment.
