MOBILITY


Whether you’re just starting to exercise or have been at it for a while, stretching is an important aspect of any movement routine. Not only does it help prevent injury, but it can also improve flexibility and range of motion, making it easier to perform any physical activity. Additionally, stretching can be helpful for people with chronic pain or stiffness, as it can help alleviate discomfort in some cases. We’ll be exploring the basics of stretching, including why it’s important, how to do it, and some common types of stretches.


Why stretching is important


While some people might think of stretching as just a way to cool down after exercise, it’s actually much more than that. In fact, there are a number of reasons why stretching should be a regular part of your fitness routine.


Benefits of Stretching:


1. Improved Flexibility: Stretching helps increase flexibility, which allows you to move your joints more freely. This can help improve your range of motion, which can be beneficial for exercise or daily activities.


2. Reduced Pain and Soreness: Stretching can help reduce pain and soreness after exercise, as well as improve posture and reduce tension in the muscles.


3. Improved Circulation: Stretching can also help improve circulation by increasing blood flow to the muscles.


Types of Stretches:


There are several types of stretches, including:


1. Static Stretches: This involves holding a stretch in a fixed position for a certain period of time. Static stretches are great for improving flexibility and range of motion.


2. Dynamic Stretches: This involves moving through a range of motion, using controlled movements. Dynamic stretches are great for warming up before exercise.


3. Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation Stretches: These stretches are done with a partner, and involve contracting and relaxing the muscles while the partner resists the movement. PNF stretches are great for improving flexibility and range of motion.


How to Stretch Safely:


Stretching can be beneficial, but it’s important to stretch safely. Here are some tips for stretching safely:

1. Warm up before stretching: It’s important to warm up before stretching to prevent injury. You can warm up by doing a few minutes of light exercise, such as walking or jogging.


2. Stretch gradually: It’s important to stretch gradually, and only stretch to the point where you feel a mild tension in the muscle. Avoid stretching too quickly or too deeply, as this can cause injury.


3. Don’t bounce: Bouncing while stretching can cause injury, as it puts too much stress on the muscles.


Stretching for chronic pain


If you suffer from chronic pain or stiffness, stretching can be a helpful tool for managing your symptoms. In some cases, a kinesiologist or other healthcare professional may recommend specific stretches that can help alleviate pain or stiffness in a particular area of the body. Additionally, stretching can be a helpful way to reduce stress and tension, which can contribute to chronic pain.


Stretching is an important aspect of physical fitness, and is beneficial for exercise beginners and people with chronic pain. By incorporating stretching into your exercise routine, you can improve flexibility, range of motion, and posture, as well as reduce pain and soreness. Remember to stretch safely, gradually, and to the point where you feel a mild tension in the muscle. And if you’re unsure about which stretches are best for your body, speak to a trained kinesiologist today!







Jaime Glassman

Jaime has been helping individuals with pain, injuries and illness move better, feel good in their bodies and regain their independence. Jaime is passionate about teaching people how to integrate exercise and movement solutions into their lives to make it easier to be better more often.