Stretch for Life
I cannot overemphasize the need for maintaining your flexibility as time passes. I have found that mild, consistent exercise and a customized stretching regimen can keep many of our aches and pains at bay. Exercise insures that we move our body every day; we sweat and drink more water; we maintain the muscle mass that we need and we keep our body weight under control. Stretching, like exercise should be customized and pain free. Not every body can do extreme yoga, pilates or t’ai chi but everyone can stretch within their limits, even under the supervision of their physician, if need be.
I took classes from Ann and Chris Frederick (go to www.StretchtoWin.com) in 2005 and they demonstrated the pain-free gains that can be made in flexibility by using their system. I learned that we lose 10% of our natural range of motion for every 10 years we age. I learned that stretching must be activity or sports specific. I learned that stretching can reduce the risk of sprains and strains while improving posture and balance. Whatever your age or level of fitness, get some professional advice and begin a flexibility regimen today!
Rosemary Anderson is a Certified Flexibility Therapist.
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Hot Tip!
- Stretch when your muscles are warm.
- Walk around and move your body first.
- Stretching should never, ever, ever hurt.
- Inhale and then exhale into the stretch position.
- Relax, relax, relax.
- Stay in the stretch position for at least five breaths.
- Do not bounce or tighten.
Come out of the stretch s-l-o-w-l-y. - Assist your own body if necessary.
- Even 5-10 minutes each day will produce noticeable results.
- You do have 5 minutes.
Call me at 480-720-6853 to ask a question or email me at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to have your question answered on this website.