Why are stretches good

For example, if you already have a strained muscle, stretching it may cause further harm. Talk to your doctor or physical therapist about the most appropriate way to stretch if you have any health concerns. Also remember that stretching doesn't mean you can't get injured. Stretching, for instance, won't prevent an overuse injury. There is a problem with information submitted for this request. Sign up for free, and stay up-to-date on research advancements, health tips and current health topics, like COVID, plus expert advice on managing your health.

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Products and services. You'll need to do it over time and remain committed to the process. A hamstring stretch will keep the muscles in the back of your thigh flexible. Sit on the floor with your legs in front of you. Slide your hands down your legs until you feel a burning sensation. Hold for 30 seconds, then slowly return to a sitting position.

We used to believe that stretching was necessary to warm up the muscles and prepare them for activity. However, mounting research has shown that stretching the muscles before they're warmed up can actually hurt them. If you exercise first, you'll get blood flow to the area, and that makes the tissue more pliable and amenable to change," says Nolan. All it takes to warm up the muscles before stretching is five to 10 minutes of light activity, such as a quick walk. You can also stretch after an aerobic or weight-training workout.

Hold a stretch for 30 seconds. Don't bounce, which can cause injury. You'll feel tension during a stretch, but you should not feel pain. If you do, there may be an injury or damage in the tissue. Stop stretching that muscle and talk to your doctor. As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Improved circulation increases blood flow to your muscles, which can shorten your recovery time and reduce muscle soreness also known as delayed onset muscle soreness or DOMS.

Muscle imbalances are common and can lead to poor posture. One study found that a combination of strengthening and stretching specific muscle groups can reduce musculoskeletal pain and encourage proper alignment. That, in turn, may help improve your posture. Tight muscles can lead to a decrease in your range of motion. When this happens, you increase the likelihood of straining the muscles in your back.

Stretching can help heal an existing back injury by stretching the muscles. A regular stretching routine can also help prevent future back pain by strengthening your back muscles and reducing your risk for muscle strain. Focus on areas of your body where you tend to hold your stress, such as your neck , shoulders , and upper back. Participating in a regular stretching program not only helps increase your flexibility, but it can also calm your mind.

While you stretch, focus on mindfulness and meditation exercises, which give your mind a mental break. Tension and stress headaches can interfere with your daily life.

In addition to a proper diet, adequate hydration, and plenty of rest, stretching may help reduce the tension you feel from headaches. This can help improve flexibility and reduce muscle tightness and pain. Flexibility in the hamstrings, hip flexors and muscles attached to the pelvis relieves stress on the lumbar spine, which in turn reduces your risk of low-back pain.

Sample of full body stretching routine:. In order to get the full benefit of your stretching you want to be as relaxed as possible. The more tension you have the harder it will be to get proper range of motion and not receive the benefits of maximal flexibility. The video at the beginning of this post is a great Full Body Stretching Routine and it only takes 15 minutes. Top 10 Benefits of Stretching. Recent Posts See All. Post not marked as liked. Ideas for Your Leftover Sweet Corn!