After months of being cooped up, and for many without the capabilities to exercise or train at home, it’s no surprise we may all be feeling a little stiff and find even the simplest physical effort testing.
Stretching is possibly the simplest route back to feeling better and making it easier to up our sadly depleted fitness levels.
Sit and stretch. Working sitting at a desktop or looking at mobiles or tablets invariably leads to rounded, hunched shoulders, bent neck, hunched torso and legs locked in a seated position. Getting up, walking around and replenishing your drinking water is usually the best manner to counteract stiff muscles but even seated stretches are a good start. Stretching counteracts tight muscles and can improve overall posture.
Stretch before exercising. There’s good reason many fitness disciplines begin with a stretching routine. Our muscles tend to tighten into the position we’re in the most, the more sedentary we are, and the less range of movement we have. Stretching before exercise can also help decrease the likelihood of muscle strain or injury, as it brings blood flow to the muscles and helps warm them, decreasing tightness.
Increases and maintains a better range of motion. As we age, our joints lose range of motion. We can counteract this by stretching regularly. Even if range of motion in some joints is limited, stretching helps maintain a better range of motion.
Reduces back pain and decrease sore muscles. Poor posture in the upper back can lead to lower back pain as it tries to compensate. Tight hamstrings and leg muscles can also lead to lower back pain. When we stretch, the associated muscles to help improve/strengthen posture this helps decrease back pain.
How drinking water helps. Even at a cellular level, we need water to transport fluids that protect and lubricate our joints and muscles. Even mild dehydration affects our ability to bend, stretch and move. This is why it’s vital to make sure you maintain good hydration habits every day.
Help maintain good hydration by installing an AquAid Water Cooler. Our range of high-quality water dispensers is suitable for a constant supply of refreshing drinking water, no matter the size of your premises or staff contingent.
