Stretching – When & How

Back to browse - View full topic

Sitting in front of a desk 5 – 6 days a week, running after the kids and daily home chores, light and heavy physical labor – all in their own way can wreak havoc on your body.
This is even more especially so because the majority of us do not have and are not particularly careful or knowledgeable about our posture.
Taking time to do some basic stretches to suit your particular needs will not only help increase your flexibility, they will also reduce tension and stress whilst allowing you to do your tasks more efficiently, with more safety against injury and discomfort.

Why be restricted to even the most simple movements and tasks because you have lost your flexibility – for whatever reason?

An easy-to-do non-invasive stretching routine can change your life for the better – no matter what your age more
Do the same stretches apply to all age-groups and sports?

Definitely not. An elderly person trying to do a stretch being performed by a 20 year old athlete can do serious harm. Stretching is possibly the least understood and most under-utilized tool avail.. more
Is stretching a warm-up as well?

Studies found that warming up by itself has no effect on range of motion, but that when the warm-up is followed by stretching there is an increase in range of motion. The findings indicate that warm.. more
How long should I stretch for in general ?

Studies do support that range of motion can be increased by a single twenty to thirty second stretch for each muscle group most days of the week. However, some people may require a longer time for v.. more
Are there basic guidelines for stretching?

It is important to start on a stretching routine that suits your particular needs. For this reason, you will find that our stretching routines fall into different categories related to age, sport or.. more
Should I “hold” each stretch or “stretch & release” each movement?

The two most common stretches are the “Static” and the “Ballistic” stretch.
Static stretches are a bit easier to do and appear to have good results.
Both systems are fine if you take care not to.. more
Besides improving my flexibility, are there other advantages to stretching?

Yes, there certainly are. Stretching is extremely relaxing and most athletes use stretching exercises to maintain a balance in body mechanics.
Combined with correct breathing techniques (Refer to.. more
Illustrated Stretching routines include the following:

- Stretches for the Beginner
- Stretches for the Elderly
- Sitting Stretches
- Stretching for Teens
- General Stretches
- Stretches for various sports
- Stretches to alleviate Back Pain
• St.. more

Why be restricted to even the most simple movements and tasks because you have lost your flexibility – for whatever reason?
Do the same stretches apply to all age-groups and sports?
Is stretching a warm-up as well?
How long should I stretch for in general ?
Are there basic guidelines for stretching?
Should I “hold” each stretch or “stretch & release” each movement?
Besides improving my flexibility, are there other advantages to stretching?
Illustrated Stretching routines include the following:

Stretching – When & How

Table of Contents