Move every way every day!

Decreased elasticity of muscles and tendons are associated with the aging process.  But here we’re presented with the bromide, which came first, the chicken or the egg?  Does the aging process cause us to lose flexibility or does inactivity over time cause this reduction?

As with strength training, the inactive body will respond to regular stretching exercises and gains in range of motion and elasticity can be enjoyed.

But why stretch?  It has long been posited that stretching before exercise (such as weight training or cardiovascular routines) will both reduce the risk of injury and enhance performance.  But studies over time are unable to conclusively assert either of those two benefits.

Stretch because it feels good and makes you more limber and moveable.   Unlike weight training, which calls for at least a day’s rest for recovery between sessions, stretching can be done every day, so stretch every day if you want to.  Stretch throughout the day if you want to.

Stretching is the ultimate “me time” because it combines beautifully the body-mind connection.  A stretch can be the best part of any day.

There are simple techniques to stretch all the major muscle groups in the body.  To explore these movements, we recommend a longtime standby in the world of exercise, Stretching by Bob Anderson.

Image courtesy of Vlado at FreeDigitalPhotos.net