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We all understand that it’s important to stay active and fit. Not only does daily exercise improve your health and wellbeing, but it also adds years to your life! Before you start getting active or exercising, you need to focus on your stretching. Stretching is an integral part of exercise, proper stretching that is.

 

At the Sport Manitoba Clinic, we want everyone to understand the importance of proper stretching before exercise. The following article will look at the reasons why stretching before exercising is imperative, and some tips to remember when stretching.

4 Reasons You Need to Stretch Before Exercising

 

Increased Motion Range – Stretching before any physical activity can increase your range of motion, preventing you from pulling or twisting a ligament or muscle. As you push yourself to the limit mentally and physically, make sure that you take necessary precautions to protect your body.

 

Improved Coordination- To piggyback off our previous point, you’re going to improve your athletic or fitness performance when you increase your range of motion. You’ll be able to execute moves and other movements that would be impossible without warming up your joints and extremities.

 

Reduced Tension – It’s not uncommon for our bodies to hold on to tension. As we live out our lives, sitting, standing, and walking, our bodies capture tension, contributing to pain and discomfort in our joints and muscles. If you fail to stretch before sports or any physical activity, you risk aggravating tense muscles. Ensure you stretch to reduce the tension on your muscles.

 

Circulation Boost – When you stretch, you promote healthy blood flow. Your blood will circulate more effectively through your body, improving heart and lung function. Even if you’re not planning on being physically active, daily stretches are great for your overall health and wellbeing.

 

Stretching Tips 

 

  • Don’t overstretch. When you feel tension building during a stretch, hold it for a number of seconds before releasing it. Stretching shouldn’t hurt, so if it is, you’re not using the correct form.
  • Focus on your breathing. Take a deep breath in through your nose as you start your stretches, and naturally exhale through your mouth as you finish your stretch.
  • Refrain from moving when you stretch – stay still for as long as you can. Moving can prevent you from achieving an effective stretch.
  • Avoid stretching extremities and muscle groups that have recently sustained an injury.
  • Avoid stretching joints that are swollen or inflamed.

 

Stretching is just as important as the physical activity that follows it. Not only does stretching provide all of the benefits mentioned above, but it also makes you feel better afterwards! If you have any questions for us and the services we provide, contact the Sport Manitoba Clinic today!