If you don’t exercise, you’re more susceptible to health problems due to obesity, more at risk of developing depression, and have a higher chance of experiencing anxiety. But if you’re in pain all the time, how can you expect to get the exercise you need? Medi-Dyne would like to share some information with you regarding how to improve flexibility so that you can stay active while reducing chances of developing back, hamstring or foot pain.
Stretch it Out
By trying a few simple exercises before working out, you’ll improve your circulation and reduce the stiffness of your muscles. Here’s how to improve flexibility by stretching on a regular basis to maintain an active lifestyle:
- Isometric stretching exercises not only strengthen your muscles but also lengthen them. The most common type of isometric stretching involves applying resistance with your own limbs. For example, sit down and then stick out your left leg. Then, place the bottom of your right foot on the inside of the left leg and bend forward. Then, stretch your leg muscles by bending forward and touching your left foot with your hands. This resistance will help build strength in your legs to you can last longer while running or cycling.
- Dynamic stretching – Decreases the risk of injury by increasing tempo as you progress through the exercise. Kicks, lunges and leg lifts are examples of dynamic stretching.
- Passive stretching – This is, of course, the opposite of dynamic stretching. It involves stretching a body part into a pose and maintaining it with help from another body part. An example is holding one arm across your chest and stretching it back with another.
There are several other options for people trying to learn how to improve flexibility. We hope they work for you. If you do get sidelined due to an injury, Medi-Dyne can help get you back in action. Contact us to find out how.
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