Is your back tight or sore from that car or airplane seat? How about from hunching over your keyboard or phone? Or maybe from carrying a too heavy backpack? Grab a mat—these stretches are for you!
Back pain is surprisingly common: About one in two people report symptoms each year, according to the American Chiropractic Association. Sometimes it’s much more than a little ache too. New research has found that in one year, almost 3.5 million patients head to the emergency room because of back problems.
These stretches are simply for mild muscle stiffness, but may be a good way to ease the aches before they progress and need a more intense intervention. Or if you don’t experience back issues, these are also great for stress relief or loosening up after a tough workout.
What is your favorite back-opening stretch?
Moving on up! Well, I don’t know if it’s the lap of luxury, but we do have a new setting for our workout videos today. And a new videographer (a tripod and myself)! Expect more Good for you moves in the future from my new apartment, and probably a few from home sprinkled in so that I can utilize all the great tools my parents have accumulated. :)
Today’s exercises require no equipment and little space. The idea: You can do these stretches nearly anywhere. Feeling stiff at the office? After a long car or plane ride? In front of the TV? Stand up and knock out these three flexibility moves. Your upper body will thank you and your posture will likely improve afterwards—due to better back awareness and comfort. (Be sure to check out that posture link for a Jay Leno look-a-like, at least in the face!) Please try not to bounce or hold your breath here. Taking slow, deep breaths while stretching will help your body relax into the moves. Plus, after doing so, you may be able to push your muscles just a bit further—but not to the point of discomfort!).
What body parts do you find carry the most stress or feel the most stiff after a hard workout or a long bout of sitting?
To finish off our month-long Lower Body Burn training, join me to lengthen and stretch your hardworking muscles! Try to clear your mind and focus on relaxing and celebrating all the strength you’ve gained during the past four weeks :)
In case you missed them (or want to try them again!), here are the lower body blast strength videos:
These are a few of my favorite stretches. Do you have any choice yoga poses or stretch moves? Do tell!
Stretching is great for physical and mental health. I find myself sometimes leaving flexibility by the wayside because results come more slowly compared to weight lifting and cardio, even though it’s a great time to loosen up muscles and reflect on all the great work just done during the rest of my workout (I stretch post-workout since it’s best to do so when muscles are warm).
While stretching has not been shown to prevent injuries, I find it to be relaxing and a great way to finish a workout, although some say that it’s not even necessary to cooldown…What do you think?
Additionally, flexibility is one of the three types of exercise that everyone should try to make routine.
What are your “stiff zones?” Do you have any favorite stretches?
