5 Summer Stretches
July 1, 2010
Now that the weather’s completely warm and summer is full swing with activities like tennis, soccer, hiking, swimming, etc, we thought you might appreciate a few stretches to keep your body safe and loose all summer:
- Quads - Grab one ankle and pull your heel to your buttock. Hold for 30 seconds and repeat with the other leg.
- Hamstrings - While standing, bend over at the waist and try to touch your toes while keeping your legs straight. Reach as far as you can and hold for 30 seconds.
- Pecs - While standing in a doorway, put your hands/forearms on the doorframe and allow your chest to be stretched as you lean forward.
- Calves - Stand near a curb and place one ball of the foot on the curb. Hold for 30 seconds and repeat with the other leg.
- Neck - Tilt you head to one side and place hand on top of the head. Gently increase pressure with your hand. Repeat on the other side.
Photo Credit: lululemon athletica
A few things to keep in mind when stretching:
- Recent research suggests it is more important to stretch after a workout when muscles are warm rather than before exercise when they are cold.
- Do not bounce when you are stretching- hold for 30 seconds at 80 percent pressure and repeat.
- If you have a partner, stretch with a little resistance. Have your partner hold your stretch then as you are returning to neutral posture have your partner resist so the muscle is working then stretch again. This will help you achieve a deeper stretch.
Now go have fun enjoying the sun!
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Although I don’t always like to add the additional time onto my workout, I’ve seen the positive difference stretching makes. Not only do I feel less stiff a few hours later, but my general flexibility increases!