While the benefits of aerobic activity and strength exercises are well known, most people are less familiar with the effects of flexibility training. Flexibility training will provide you with a wider range of motion, resulting in a more symmetrical body, better posture, improved balance, relief of muscular cramps and alleviation of lower back pain.
Stretching is the best injury preventor and feels great right from the moment that it is first attempted. Stretching should be tailored to your particular muscle structure and present level of flexibility. The key is regularity and relaxation. The object is to reduce muscular tension, thereby promoting freer movement – not to concentrate on attaining extreme flexibility, which often leads to over-stretching and injury. Knowing what to stretch, and what does not need stretching is the key. The benefit of proper flexibility in injury reduction and performance enhancement cannot be disputed. The sequence should be WARM-UP, STRETCH, WORKOUT, and then STRETCH again. Stretching after exercise is most important. Flexibility can be improved at any age. ENJOY!