W H Y Y O U S H O U L D S T R E T C HM E L I S S A K E R O A C K :

• Stretching on a regular basis is just as important as getting an adequate amount of exercise per week.

• However, most people tend to overlook the importance of stretching and will skip it completely, thinking that it will do little to improve their fitness.

• Stretching should be included with every workout, and can even substitute a workout if your body needs it.

• Here are some reasons why you should stretch more and make it a part of your everyday routine…

• First, let’s talk about why stretching is good for your body.

• To start with, it helps improve your flexibility and in turn increases your range of motion.

• This is particularly important for athletes who need to make sure their flexibility levels are high so that their chances of injuring a muscle decrease.

• Stretching also increases your posture because it lengthens tight muscles that tend to pull areas of the body away from their original intended position.

• In addition, stretching helps increase blood and nutrient supply to your muscles, which can reduce muscle soreness significantly.

• Stretching is not only beneficial for you physically, but it is also proven to have positive effects for your mind.

• Stretching for just 10 to 15 minutes per day can help calm your mind and give your body a chance to recharge.

Many yoga and pilates classes incorporate stretching with strength and mind exercises that allow you to release physical and mental tension while also helping you increase your flexibility levels.

H E R E A R E S O M E T H I N G S T O K E E P I N M I N D A S Y O U T H I N K A B O U T S T R E T C H I N G R E G U L A R LY:

• Though many people think that stretching should be done before a workout, it is important that you stretch after a workout when your muscles are warmed up.

• Focus on muscles that need the most help - spend a longer amount of time stretching muscles that you can feel are tight or more prone to injury

• Stretch for a long period of time once a week - this can be done through an hour-long yoga class or through your own flexibility routine.

Hopefully, you will begin to implement more stretching as part of something you do on a daily basis, because it is not only good for your body, but for your mind aswell.

• Stretching is a way for you to get and stay healthier and so you can prevent yourself from getting injured.

• For more information on why stretching is good for you, read this article published on LifeHacker.com.