Are You Underestimating the Importance of Stretching?

Stretching Should Be For Everyone– Not Just Runners!

Did you know that stretching is a critical part of a healthy daily routine? If you don’t have a stretching routine in place, you should start one right away! A good stretch is an excellent way to begin your day, regardless of your age or fitness level. Stretching, according to the Mayo Clinic, “can increase flexibility and improve your joints’ range of motion, allowing you to move more freely. In addition, ensuring equal flexibility on both sides may help protect you from injury.â€

The benefits of stretching are endless, but here are 8 reasons why you should start doing it right now. If you are unsure where to begin, please contact First Physical Therapy today so that a physical therapist can assist you!

1. Stretching increases energy levels

Stretching is the best thing you can do when you first wake up. A few great stretches combined with deep breathing exercises can provide you with the energy boost you need to get your day started right! If you begin to feel tired or sluggish at work, take a stretch break to re-energize your body.

2. You’ll increase your flexibility

Physical therapy can aid in the improvement of flexibility and range of motion. Better flexibility has a plethora of advantages. It can boost your physical performance and lower your risk of injury. The more flexible you are, the less energy your body needs to perform daily tasks.

3. Lowering of stress levels

Excessive stress in your body can cause your muscles to tighten and contract, leaving you feeling tense. We all carry stress differently in our bodies, but stretching can release endorphins, which can relax you, boost your mood, and reduce the overall amount of stress you feel.

Are you eager to begin a stretching routine? Great! It’s okay if you don’t know where to begin. We’re here to assist you. Make an appointment with a physical therapist today by contacting First Physical Therapy.

4. Stretching promotes blood flow

One of the primary advantages of stretching is that it improves blood circulation. Blood transports oxygen to your cells and helps you stay healthy by promoting cell growth and keeping your organs functioning. Stretching also lowers your heart rate. This reduces the strain on your heart and improves the consistency of your blood pressure. Improved blood circulation also reduces muscle soreness after exercise! No matter how you look at it, stretching is a win-win situation.

5. Stretching reduces the risk of injury

If you work at a desk in an office, you may believe you have little to no chance of being seriously injured. This is actually not true! Consider the following scenario. You must stoop to pick up a 20-pound box of office supplies. You notice your back is still aching hours later. You may have strained or pulled a muscle and ended up in physical therapy to recover. However, if you stick to a regular stretching routine, this is unlikely to happen to you.

6. You’ll have higher stamina and decreased muscle soreness

Stretching before and after a heavy workout is also a good idea if you want to improve your muscles’ stamina. When you stretch, you increase the blood flow and oxygen levels in your sore muscles. This means that essential nutrients will have a clear path to the muscles, reducing soreness after your workout. Stretching will help you experience less post-workout fatigue and will allow you to work out for longer periods of time in the future.

7. You’ll notice a difference in your posture

If you work at a desk job, you may find yourself sitting and slouching far more than is healthy. Stretching at work every day can improve your posture by lengthening muscles in your back that tend to tighten up during the course of a workday. Keep your spine aligned by concentrating on your chest, shoulders, and lower back. Stretching on a regular basis also alleviates aches and pains that may have caused you to slouch in the first place.

8. Lowering Cholesterol

Here’s some more good news if you’re struggling to lower your cholesterol. Stretching on a regular basis can help lower cholesterol if combined with a heart-healthy diet. This is especially important if you want to avoid heart disease and other heart-related problems. Stretching has even been shown to reverse the effects of artery hardening caused by high cholesterol levels.

Begin Your Treatment Right Away

If you’d like to learn more about how to begin implementing a healthy stretching routine, please contact First Physical Therapy today to schedule an appointment. One of our licensed physical therapists will be able to discuss your needs, perform an evaluation, and show you the best ways to stretch and stay limber at home!