Why Flexibility Is Important
By Donna Stark
Whether it comes to us naturally or we have to work at it (and I mean really work at it), we all know how important flexibility is to our lives. Without it, we are setting ourselves up for potential injury, limited mobility, and possibly even decreased independence. And although we are born with varying degrees of it, there is one thing that remains constant between us all ... the ability to improve it. If you find it hard to bend over and touch your toes or to reach for your favorite coffee mug in the morning, and wish you were more flexible, keep reading.
The Benefits of Good Flexibility
Being flexible is great for the game of Twister, but that's not all it is good for! Great flexibility can benefit your life in so many other ways too. It can make everyday tasks, such as picking up your child, reaching for an object on a high shelf, and getting dressed much easier to do. On top of that, good flexibility can decrease the risk of injury and low back pain. Improving your flexibility is a step in the right direction that could literally change your life!
How to Improve Flexibility
Did you know you can do more than just those daily stretches to improve your flexibility? Here are some simple habits that will get you moving and grooving with ease in no time at all!
- Stop sitting and move more - The less time you spend sitting and the more time you spend moving, the better your flexibility will be! Try to incorporate at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise into your routine every day.
- Stretch only when muscles are warm - Engaging in static stretches while your muscles are warm (after your workouts) is better than trying to stretch them while they are cold. The poses you hold during these stretches encourage your muscles to relax and lengthen.
- Engage in exercises that promote flexibility - Exercises like yoga and tai chi are great options to choose from if you want to improve your range of motion, flexibility, and mobility. These exercises focus on poses that help ease muscle tension and improve movement.
A Better Life
It's time to get more out of your life! Start improving your flexibility today by stretching daily and following the simple tips above. Then, go ahead and grab your family for a fun-filled evening of Twister. They won't believe how flexible you have become!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Franklin, Tenn.