Before You Begin
Always warm up your muscles with a few minutes of light activity, like brisk walking or jogging in place, before you stretch.
What You’ll Need
- A sturdy chair or bench
- Towel or resistance band
Key Stretching Tips
- Go Slowly: Do each stretch slowly and with control.
- Feel, Don’t Force: Stretch only to a point of mild discomfort. Stop immediately if you feel any sharp pain.
- Hold Steady: Hold each stretch for 15–30 seconds. Do not bounce, as this can cause injury.
- Breathe: Remember to breathe throughout the stretch.
- Form Matters: Use proper form to ensure you are targeting the correct muscles.
- Repeat: For best results, perform each stretch 2–3 times.
- Be Consistent: The key to improving flexibility is stretching regularly. Aim to stretch at least 2–3 times a week, or even for a few minutes every day.
- Use Props: Don’t have the flexibility to reach your toes? Use a towel or resistance band wrapped around your foot to help you get a deeper stretch without straining.