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There are two people in my life that don’t like to listen to me. I love em both… And maybe they think I’m nagging them, but my nagging comes from a loving spot.
Those two are my husband and mother.
Neither like to stretch!
I’m sure many of you are the same way, and I used to be that way too.
Stretching takes time, can be uncomfortable and the reward isn’t necessarily instant. But it’s so very important for our muscles! When my mom and I run together I get her to stretch with me (most of the time) so my mission is accomplished there.
Jacob doesn’t run, but bikes. I’m rarely there with him and know he doesn’t stretch afterward. Honey, I love you. You should stretch. 🙂
So here’s the game plan. After your run, bike, hike, swim or whatever activity you do, go through there stretches. They’re some of my favorites. Hold each stretch for 20-60 seconds to the point where you feel a stretch but no pain.
Your muscles will thank you!
•Quad Stretch•
Keep your knees close together. The bent leg should not be going out to the side.
•Calf Stretch•
Lunge forward slightly resting your hands on your front bent leg. Keep your back leg straight.
•Hamstring Stretch•
Sit back into that bent leg, keeping that front leg straight.
•Inner Thigh Stretch•
Lunge over to the side with one leg straight and one bent. Push your booty back and make sure your knees stay behind toes in this stretch.
•Outer Thigh and Side Stretch•
Cross one leg in front of the other. Bring the same side’s arm straight up and over to the opposite side.
•Hip Flexor and Glute Stretch•
Bend your knee and set your ankle up on your other leg’s quad. Sit back into this stretch. The more open your bend leg is the more you’ll feel the stretch.
My favorite!!
•Chest and Shoulder Stretch•
Bring your hands together behind your back and straighten your arms.
•Back Stretch•
Clasp your hands together in front of you and straighten your arms.
What’s your favorite stretch? Are you good about stretching after a workout?
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I’m one of those people who does not take the time to stretch. I really love it, but I’d rather spend my time doing a workout that I actually feel. Thank God for yoga, otherwise my muscles would be tighter than a wooden board.
Yes yoga is amazing! I need to do it more often…
I used to hate stretching now I find myself stretching whilst watching TV.
That’s great! Double tasking 🙂
Hmm! I needed more stretches! great post 🙂
Thanks glad you liked it Lauren.
Great stretches!! 🙂 have an awesome weekend!
Thanks, you too Allie!
I definitely need to get better at stretching. I’m on it!
Great!