Food & Fitness

Loosen up with gentle, simple S-T-R-E-T-C-H-E-S!

Before you start exercising, you may find it helpful to stretch you muscles. Proper stretching will increase your flexibility and minimize your chances of pulling a muscle.

By following this simple routine, you can become loose and limber in a few minutes. Perform all stretches slowly with controlled movements for 10-20 seconds taking slow deep breaths. Do not bounce or stretch to the point of pain.

1. Standing Hip Stretch
   Start from a standing position. Take a full step forward with your left foot. Gently bend left knee to lower hips, keeping right heel on ground and right knee straight. Switch and repeat.
2. Standing Quad Stretch
   While standing, bend your left leg and reach back to grasp you left ankle. Pull you foot toward your buttocks while placing other hand on a bench or chair for support. Switch and repeat.
3. Standing Wall Pushes
   Stand arms length from a sturdy pole or wall. Place your hands on the wall at shoulder height, bend the elbows, lean in from the ankles, and press your body upright until you feel a slight strain in your legs.
4. Standing Calf Stretch
   While standing, extend one leg in front of you and place the heel on the floor, toes in the air. Keeping the back straight, bend forward at the hips until you feel the stretch of the calves. Switch and repeat.

Repeat this entire sequence when you finish exercising to prevent undue stiffness and soreness later.