Staying Flexible and Mobile WIth Stretching Exercises
By Stephen R. Farris
The older we get, the less flexible and mobile we become. It's just a part of the aging process, but you don't have to let it take control to the point that it sends you sitting in a rocking chair all day out on the front porch.
There are a few stretching exercises that can help jump-start your day, so you can be more flexible and mobile.
These stretches can be performed while sitting, standing or lying down, and shouldn't take up much of your time on the days that you do them -- no more than 5-10 minutes.
The best time to stretch is in the morning when you wake up, basically to get the blood pumping and everything else woke up too (muscles, joints, etc.)
Sitting Stretches
These are fairly simple to do and there are videos available on YouTube that can show you the right way to do them, or you can talk with your local chiropractor and have him show you the correct technique. So what are they?
- Side bends
- Twists
- Forward lean
Just make sure to keep your back straight and not hunched when doing them.
Lying Down Stretches
These stretches can be a bit challenging, so ease into them.
- Knees to chest
- Torso stretch
- Hamstring stretch
When doing knee stretches, you can do a few bringing both knees into your chest after alternating one knee, then the other. Torso stretches should be repeated for both your left and right side.
Standing Stretches
Standing stretches include the following three, however, there are others that you could include later on once you get used to stretching regularly.
- Modified squat
- Backward extension
- Forward flexion
When doing backward extension stretches, it's important that you don't overextend your neck. With forward flexion, remember to keep your back straight. No hunching your back.
These are a few stretching ideas to get you started. As mentioned earlier, if you have questions about technique or stretching/exercising in general, talk with your local chiropractor for more tips and ideas to fit your active lifestyle. And remember, if you are experiencing pain in your back, neck and joints, let your chiropractor know so they can suggest treatment options that are available to help relieve those pains.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Taylors, S.C.