Stretching

STRETCHING, WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?

Most people think of stretching is as the annoying thing you do after sport. However stretching and giving our muscles a break is so important. We should include it as part of our daily routine in some way or another. Rather than just after sport.

In terms of muscles a tight muscle is a weak muscle. Muscles get tight over time from overuse and stress being put on them. In our busy lives we often forgot that we need to counteract this. When we don’t this leads to pain, stiffness and potential injury.

When a muscle does its job it must contract to do so.  If a muscle is already tight it has less room to contract which will then in turn lead to other muscle groups having to compensate for its lack of function. By stretching we are elongating the muscles again and letting them relax. In doing this they can then function how they are made to.

WHEN SHOULD WE STRETCH?

During winter it is especially important to stretch and get the body warmed up as in the cooler months our muscles tend to bother us more. If you have pets you may notice they will often stretch and get their bodies warmed up before they set out to do any activity.

Stretching doesn’t have to be a long and arduous task. Even just spending a few minutes in the mornings after a hot shower is beneficial or in the ad break of your favourite TV show at night.

Feel free to call in or email and we can send you some of our favourite stretches or ask at your next appointment.

The more we care for our bodies the more they will perform for us.