Did you know consistent stretching significantly decreases muscle soreness? If you are guilty of skipping your stretches post exercise, then wind down with this 10-minute all over loosener.
Make sure you are still warm from your workout or if you are using this as a pre workout then warm up with 5 minutes of skipping or high-knee marching if you have knee or shin issues.
Toe Reach Stretch
Targets: Hamstrings
Sit on the floor with your left leg straight in front of you, knee slightly bent, right leg bent out to the side and resting on the floor. Reach for your toes without bouncing and hold for 30 second then relax. Do this 3 times, then switch legs and repeat.
Hip Flexor Stretch
Targets: Hips
Lie face up on the floor with your left leg bent and left foot flat on the ground. Bend your right knee out to the side so your right ankle is crossed over and resting on the left thigh. Grasp your left thigh with both hands and pull it toward you until you feel a comfortable stretch in your right hip, glutes and outer thigh. Hold for 45 seconds then switch legs and repeat. Repeat both sides if you feel the need.
Side Stretch
Targets: Upper Back and Waistline
Stand with feet shoulder-width apart. Raise arms overhead and interlock fingers with palms facing up. Keeping your abs drawn in, hinge at the waist to the right and hold for 30 seconds. Return to center and reach up holding for 30 seconds. Switch sides and repeat. Do 3 stretches on each side.
This mini all over stretch should keep you mobile and help prevent any injuries or stiffness that may occur due to tight muscles.