An important, but unfortunately often overlooked, part of working out and running regularly, is to stretch it out. It doesn’t matter whether you stretch before a weight training session, or stretch after a run, or dedicate a full day to stretching and rolling.
Just do it!
Graphic ‘Woman Up’ Workout Tee c/o Lucy Activewear
Revolution Run Capri c/o Lucy Activewear
Why is it so important?
- It helps keep you limber
- Flexibility improves your range of motion for a variety of activities
- By increasing blood flow it can decrease recovery time post-workout
- The movements can help to keep your joints healthy
Being an athlete growing up, stretching was always a part of a our daily routine – For gymnastics, volleyball, and diving. The stretches themselves may have shifted based on the needs of a given sport, but there were daily stretches rain or shine for all three. Usually before and after the training session.
{Photography by Brad Wittke of Pacifica Gallery}
Not sure where to start? Check out these helpful and informative posts that will give you the basics:
- Women’s Health – 4 Amazing Stretches for Injury Prevention
- PopSugar – The 6 Stretches Everyone Who Sits at a Desk Should Be Doing
- Chalkboard Mag – 5 Simple Yoga Stretches for an Open Heart
Need some more tips for keeping your muscles loose? Check out my Relaxing & Stress-Reducing Yoga Moves post.
Are YOU a fan of stretching? Do you roll out your muscles regularly?
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