At Optimum Performance we understand and consider the whole image of wanting to exercise and be fit and healthy, this includes stretching.
Stretching is so important to us because not only can it help with an injury, but it can also help to prevent injury as well as improving our mobility and performance. At Optimum Performance, we recognise that stretching is vital and we encourage all our patients to implement it into their lifestyle; we can also help them and support them in gaining confidence and understanding with how to stretch by helping them in person and also providing videos.
Although we have many pieces of equipment at Optimum Performance in Surrey, sometimes the simple answer is the most effective! That is why we never rule out the basic self-care of our bodies and try to advise this to our patients. There are many ways that you can incorporate stretching into your routine:
- Use a foam roller after exercise
- Do a yoga or Pilates class
- Create a short routine before and after your exercise
- Stretch every morning
- Watch a you tube video to guide you
What are the benefits of stretching?
- It can increase your flexibility which is good to improve your everyday health and performance
- It can increase your range of motion which can give you more freedom of movement; this is helpful for improving your everyday health and sport related performance
- Stretching increase blood flow to the muscles. This can help to reduce the risk of muscle soreness and prevent injury.
- Stretching can improve your posture; often poor posture is due to a muscle imbalance so stretching your body evenly on both sides can help to rebalance your strength on both sides.
- Stretching can help to relieve back pain and tension headaches. This is because tight muscles can lead to a decrease in your range of motion which in turn can strain certain muscles, which causes pain. Regular stretching is great to relieve these sorts of pains.
- Stretching is good for stress relief which has a lot of benefits. Usually, when you are stressed, your muscles tighten, so stretching can help to combat that. It can also calm your mind as you are focusing on your body and the moment when you are stretching.
At Optimum Performance we recommend that if you haven’t stretched before or it is not part of your normal routine, you should start with 5-10 minutes every day and build this up, with intensity, over time. It is important not to overdo it or push your body too far or you can run the risk of developing an injury.
If you would like more advice, please contact us at Optimum Performance in Surrey.