Tips for Building & Maintaining Flexibility

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Our bodies have a tendency to become tight and stiff as we age, especially if our day-to-day lives consist of hours sitting at a desk. To maintain mobility and reduce the risk of injury over time, it’s important to incorporate flexibility-focused exercises into our daily routine. By increasing blood flow, regular stretching helps to deliver fresh oxygen to tight muscles and joints, which can help to reduce pain and tension so that we feel more comfortable and balanced.

We recommend speaking with a professional to determine what types of flexibility exercises are most appropriate for you, though here are a few tips to consider regardless of what your goals are.

Be Consistent

Consistency may be the most important aspect of working toward any kind of change, and increasing flexibility is no exception. Start with a few minutes of simple stretches, or, if you prefer something a bit more structured, try activities like yoga or Pilates. Choose a regular time or find a partner to help hold you accountable.

Use Proper Technique

It’s essential to maintain the correct form when stretching to prevent injury and avoid stressing your muscles further. Warm up for a few minutes with some gentle cardio, move into your stretches slowly, and stop when you feel mild discomfort. Stretching should never be painful. If you’re not sure how to hold a pose safely, skip it.