Do You Stretch Regularly

In order to maintain full-range of motion, flexibility, and extensibility of the joints in our bodies we need to stretch regularly. Most often people dont stretch before their workout? As a trainer I am aghast when I see regular gym members do this. This is one way to improve muscle development. You are also doing so much to help to warm up the muscles and prepare them for the demand that you are going to be imposing on them. We must emphasize that stretching prior to your workout will lessen the chances of injury.

I believe the most common issues are that people dont know what muscles to stretch nor how to do the stretch properly Taking a bit of time to print some out or to write the stretches down will help you to do them properly. So let's make a list of some stretches that can get you started in the right direction.

1.The Frog Pose

This is a deep groin stretch. Stretching your adductors efficiently. Get into a table position on a mat. Slowly start widening your legs. Just until its mildly uncomfortable. Remember its never supposed to hurt!!!! To progress you can push back into it, get into a sitting position directly on top of your hips.

2.Camel Pose

This stretch is great for stretching the rectus abdominus and the external obliques. Sit on your knees and put your hands on your feet as you extend your hips up and forward. Don't over-do it. Practice with it a bit.

3.Forearm Extensor Stretch

Start by pushing your shoulders down and back, the externally rotate your shoulder. Now this is where it gets tricky. You are going to place your other hand over your extended hand. You are going to apply pressure with the hand thats bent. Use the other hand to stop this from happening.

4.Hip Flexor Stretch

This is one of the most needed when it comes to individuals who are sedentary for most of the day . This is shown to be a direct path to chronic illnesses in your future. So stretch your hip flexors and thank yourself later. There are many ways to stretch your hip flexors. Find what works best for you. This one pictured personally works best for me.

5. Latt Stretch with physio-ball

this is a great way to do this stretch with little to no affect for lower lumbar problems. You can also hit this muscle from the side by laying on your side on the ball and putting your arm over your head with staggered feet for balance.