One of the most important aspects of a healthy lifestyle is stretching and strengthening your muscles regularly. Flexibility exercises improve your range of motion, reduce the risk of injuries, and allow you to perform daily activities comfortably. Stretching helps your body function correctly and efficiently, which impacts your physical and emotional levels.
At Stretch 22, our mission is to help people become healthier and perform at the highest level possible. If you are looking for a sustainable way to become more flexible or prep your muscles for daily practice, here are the simple exercises we recommend.
The Lunge Stretch
The lunge is a classic exercise that stretches the lower leg, groin, and hamstring muscles. It strengthens the core muscles and develops your sense of balance.
In this exercise, you need to place your hands on your hips or upper thighs. Take a long step forward with one leg, bending both knees to a 90-degree angle. Keep your back straight and your feet and hands flat on the floor. Make sure to keep your head upright and your chest up.
Hold this position for 15 to 20 seconds, then repeat with the other leg.
The Tricep Stretch
Strong triceps contribute to the appearance of a tight, toned upper body. This exercise targets the three triceps muscles: medial, lateral, and long head.
Keep your elbows close to your body and point towards the ceiling. Raise one arm and bend it so that it touches your back. Make sure to keep your arm straight throughout the movement.
Hold the position for 30 to 60 seconds, then switch arms.
The Dancer’s Stretch
This stretch helps improve the range of motion of your lower body muscles and increases flexibility in the hips and shoulders. It strengthens your core muscles.
The first step is to stand with your feet together and your knees slightly bent. Raise one arm in the air and reach it behind your back. Make sure to keep your hips facing forward.
Hold this position for 30 to 60 seconds, then repeat with the other arm.
The Seated Straddle
This stretch improves flexibility in your inner thighs, groin, and hip flexors.
You’ll need to sit on a mat or carpeted area with your legs straight ahead. Lean forward with your upper body and place your hands on the ground to support yourself. Make sure not to bend your lower back and keep your shoulders back.
After 15 to 20 seconds, return to the starting position.
The Standing Quad Stretch
This exercise targets the quad muscles located in front of your thighs.
Keep your back straight and your chest and shoulders relaxed throughout this stretch. You need to stand with your feet together, arms down, and hands on hips. Next, lower one leg until it is about 6 inches off the ground.
Hold the position for 20 seconds, then switch legs.
The Single-Leg Lying Heel Tuck
This stretch targets the muscles in the lower back and hamstrings.
Lie on your back with one leg straight up, knee bent. Slowly bend your knee until it touches your toes, and move your foot towards your opposite elbow.
Now let go of this position and straighten up.
Practice Flexibility Exercises Today
Flexibility exercises are a valuable, easy way to stay healthy and maintain a good range of motion. If you are looking for experts to help you achieve better flexibility in your body, turn to the professionals at Stretch 22. We have plenty of stretching exercises you can do to improve your health and overall well-being. Our stretch specialists can help provide you with the best fitness tips.