Pre-workout stretches are essential for preparing your body for an intense workout. Not only do they help to prevent injury, but they also improve your flexibility, range of motion, and overall performance. In this article, we will explore the best pre-workout stretches to fuel your body and get the most out of your workout.
Quad Stretch
The first pre-workout stretch is the quad stretch. Stand with your feet hip-width apart, and lift your left foot behind you, bending your knee so your foot is near your glutes. Grab your ankle with your left hand and hold for 15-20 seconds. Repeat on the other side. This stretch targets your quadriceps, which are important for movements such as squats and lunges.
Hamstring Stretch
Next up is the hamstring stretch. Stand with your feet hip-width apart and your knees slightly bent. Reach your arms up towards the ceiling and hinge forward at the hips, keeping your back straight. Reach for your toes and hold for 15-20 seconds. This stretch targets your hamstrings, which are important for movements such as deadlifts and lunges.
Calf Stretch
The third pre-workout stretch is the calf stretch. Stand facing a wall with your hands on the wall for support. Place one foot in front of the other and press the heel of your back foot into the ground. Hold for 15-20 seconds and repeat on the other side. This stretch targets your calves, which are important for movements such as running and jumping.
Hip Flexor Stretch
The fourth pre-workout stretch is the hip flexor stretch. Start in a lunge position with your back leg extended behind you. Place your hands on your hips and press your hips forward until you feel a stretch in the front of your back leg. Hold for 15-20 seconds and repeat on the other side. This stretch targets your hip flexors, which are important for movements such as squats and lunges.
Shoulder Stretch
Finally, we have the shoulder stretch. Stand with your feet hip-width apart and clasp your hands behind your back. Lift your arms up and away from your body, squeezing your shoulder blades together. Hold for 15-20 seconds. This stretch targets your shoulders, which are important for movements such as push-ups and overhead presses.
