Tuesday, January 27, 2009

Avoid Possible Injury With The Proper Stretching Exercise

Illustrated Stretching Exercise

It is a well known fact that before any type of fitness training it is necessary to carry out some simple stretching exercise so there is less chance of injury. But to help further with your workout there are some other things you may wish to do to make it more enjoyable.

Ok so none of what I have said so far is a secret but you would be amazed how many people do not do it but were you aware that you should also continue this stretching at the end of a workout as the muscles are warm and more flexible.

For instance, stretching movements for a warm up only have to last a third of the time that the same movements do when you are doing a cool-down, so they need to last for about a minute. It is not advisable to stretch and then relax straight away but to return to the original position slowly.

Ideally the stretch should last a few seconds then a slow return because it is easy to damage joints or even pull muscles when this is not done correctly. Work slowly in increments instead of immediately proceeding to doing the hardest exercise or position so make sure that you have stretched or warmed up all muscle groups.

A neck workout is as important as the rest of your body and is quite easy, only requiring pressure from the palm of the hand as it rests against the forehead which can then be repeated at the side of the head and the back. By performing stretching exercises, whether at the gym or not will increase both your flexibility but help increase your strength and improve your breathing and fitness training as well. It is a common sight seeing relative newcomers try to compete with people who are far more advanced but this is never a good idea; just stick to what your body is comfortable with and you will gradually increase you abilities. Do not expect your body to be able to carry out the same exercises and level of training every time you go to the gym because some days you will have a better workout than others; this is perfectly normal and to be expected. Fitness training everyday can be punishing for the muscles and does not allow them to heal and grow so try to leave a day between workouts. Aerobic exercises are the best for you because they will improve you cardiovascular system, improve your stamina, lung capacity and overall fitness; exercises like skipping running, rowing, swimming, stepping machines etc.

Many people find music good for exercise, especially something with a regular beat that can be worked to; of course mp3 players are ideal for this. If you are someone who has trouble relaxing or sleeping then you may want to consider stretching exercises as it is good for you even if you are not working out. Even if you do not intend to workout, stretching is an excellent way for the body to relax, especially if you find yourself in one position for a good deal of the day.

More info on stretching exercises will be found here Physical Therapy Exercise and also here Physical Therapist Job

No comments: