Why Stretch?

Written By: Coach LoniWhy Stretch??

Well, we stretch to get a better range of motion.

Common tight areas and shortened muscles in the upper trapezius (along side of the neck and upper shoulder) are caused by the following:

• Stress
• Bad posture
• Static load
• Inactivity (sitting too long)
• Sleeping in a bad position for too long
• Lactic acid build up ( a by product after working those muscles)
• Training with poor technique
• Sitting crossed legged
• Habitually carrying a bag on the same shoulder
• Feeling cold and tensing up

So we stretch for pain relief, we stretch to prevent injury, we stretch to decrease inflammation and irritation.

Four main principles for stretching are:

• Avoid pain
• Stretch slowly & breathe
• Stretch the correct muscles
• Avoid effecting other muscles and joints

So, how can you incorporate stretching into your daily life?

• You can take time before, during or after a workout
• Make it a part of your day, like brushing your teeth
• You can be cold or warm so long as you are performing those stretches properly. You do not need any equipment, so it makes it very easy to do this anywhere!!

To learn more about stretching and stretching techniques, feel free to reach out to [email protected] to learn more!