by Aleksi Matias

Stretching is an essential component of any exercise routine, but it is often overlooked or skipped all together. Stretching involves lengthening the muscles and preparing them for physical activity. By incorporating stretching into your daily routine, you can improve your flexibility, reduce the risk of injury, and improve overall performance.

Stretching helps to improve flexibility. As we age, our muscles tend to become stiff, leading to a reduced range of motion. Regular stretching can help to maintain or even increase flexibility, allowing for a wider range of movement and motion in joints and muscles. This increase in flexibility can also improve posture and reduce the risk of developing joint and muscle pain.

However, most importantly stretching helps to reduce the risk of injury. When we engage in physical activity, our muscles can become tight and prone to injury. Stretching before exercise can help to loosen up the muscles and prepare them for physical activity. This can reduce the risk of straining or tearing a muscle and can help to prevent other types of injuries, such as sprains and strains.

Overall, it is important to note that stretching should not be limited to before or after a workout. Stretching throughout the day can help to reduce muscle tension, improve overall flexibility, reduce the risk of injury, and improve overall performance in regular everyday activity.