Body Stretch

Body stretch is an important follow up after any workout. Stretching also helps to relax your muscles and controls stress. Sitting in the office for longer hours often stiffens your body muscles. Stretching your body is an effective way to dissipate the tension in your muscles.

 

Benefits of body stretch

• Stretching is an important part of your warm up routine before any workout.
• Post exercise body stretch minimizes the risk of injuries and also helps your body to recover after a workout.
• Body stretches helps to improve the flexibility of your limbs.
• Stretching your body helps to fight against the effects of stress.

Types of body stretch

Some of the common body stretches are:

• Chest: Place your left forearm on a wall, at chest level, with the elbows bent at right angles. Turn your body gradually to your right. Repeat with your right forearm.
• Biceps: Spread your arms slightly behind. Your thumbs should be pointing up. Now rotate the thumbs till they are pointing towards the back wall.
• Triceps: Raise your right hand and place it behind your head. Bring your left hand to rest over your right arm. Now pull in your right arm with the help of your left arm. Repeat with left hand.
• Shoulders: With your left arm across your chest, hold the left elbow with your right hand. Stretch your left hand with the help of your right hand. Repeat with alternate sides.
• Legs: Hold your left leg (around the ankle area) with your left hand and bend it, till it points upward. The knee should point towards the floor. Repeat with your right leg.

Body stretch tips

• Minimize bounces or any sudden jerky movements while stretching.
• While stretching focus on those parts of the body that will be used during a particular workout. For instance work on your legs if you are going for a jog.
• If you feel any discomfort while stretching stop immediately.