Are you looking for a way to make good on your New Year’s resolution? If so, you are in luck!
Stretching is an essential part of physical therapy, and incorporating stretches into your daily routine can help you to improve your overall physical health. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some great tips regarding stretching!
The Importance of Stretching 💭
Stretching is an important part of staying healthy and active, as it helps to improve your mobility and range of motion. Stretching regularly can help improve posture, reduce the risk of injury, and increase your overall flexibility. It also helps to loosen tight muscles and improves circulation throughout your body.
Stretching has also been shown to have mental benefits as well. Stretching can help you relax and destress after a long day, as well as boost your energy levels. It is also a great way to help you focus on your breathing, which can be especially helpful if you have anxiety or stress-related issues.
Types of Stretches ✅
There are many different types of stretches that you can do, each focusing on different areas of your body. The most basic type of stretch is static stretching, which involves slowly stretching the muscle until you feel slight tension and holding the stretch for 30 seconds or more. This type of stretching should be done when the muscle is already warm, such as after a light jog or walk.
Dynamic stretching is the opposite of static stretching. Instead of slowly stretching the muscle, dynamic stretching involves moving the body through its full range of motion in a continuous and controlled way. Examples of dynamic stretching include lunges, leg swings, and arm circles. Yoga is a fantastic example of dynamic stretching!
How to Stretch Safely ✍
Stretching can be an important part of any workout routine, but it is important to stretch safely. Many people mistakenly think that stretching should be done as vigorously as possible, but this can actually lead to injuries and muscle strains. Instead, focus on taking your time when stretching and using proper form. When starting to stretch, begin by warming up your muscles first by doing some light cardio or a few dynamic exercises. This will help loosen your muscles so that they are more flexible and reduce the risk of injury.
Once your muscles are warm, you can start to perform static stretches. Static stretches involve holding a position for a set period of time and should not cause pain. Don’t force the stretch beyond what is comfortable as this can cause tears or injuries. After holding each stretch for 20-30 seconds, release the stretch and relax before repeating it a few times. In addition to stretching, foam rolling is another great way to promote muscle health and improve flexibility.
Tips for Incorporating Stretching Into Your Daily Routine 💡
Stretching doesn’t have to be a chore. In fact, it can be one of the easiest lifestyle changes you make in the New Year! Here are some tips on how to incorporate stretching into your daily routine:
1. If you want to incorporate more stretching into your routine, consider visiting a physical therapist. A physical therapist can develop an individualized stretching program for you that fits your needs and lifestyle.
2. Schedule Time for Stretching: Create a schedule for yourself and make time for stretching every day. Even if you only have five minutes, try to fit stretching into your day. A great time would be after a morning run!
3. Try doing some simple stretches while watching TV or during your lunch break at work. You can also add stretching to your pre-and post-workout routines to maximize the benefits of both exercises.
4. Start Small: Don’t push yourself too hard at first – start with just a few basic stretches and increase your intensity over time as your flexibility improves. We highly recommend Yoga for people wanting to improve their flexibility.
How Granite State Physical Therapy Can Help 👩⚕️
At Granite State Physical Therapy, we understand the importance of stretching for overall health and wellness. Our physical therapists can customize a stretching program that is specifically tailored to your needs, ensuring that you are performing exercises that are effective and safe.
We also provide one-on-one treatment sessions, where our physical therapists can assess and correct your form as needed. Our team is dedicated to helping you reach your health and fitness goals, and our personalized approach ensures that you are getting the best care possible.
If you’re looking to get started with a consultation, give our team a call, or send a message here!
