You may think that the stretching are only practiced by runners or gymnasts. But we all need to stretch in order to preserve our mobility and our independence.
Many people do not understand that stretching should be practiced regularly. They should be daily. Simply building muscle and achieving good aerobic fitness is not enough to achieve good physical fitness. You also need to think about your flexibility. And this is where stretching plays its role. Stretching allows muscles to stay flexible, strong and healthy , and we need this flexibility to maintain the range of motion of our joints.
Without it, muscles shorten and contract. Then, when you call upon them for an activity, they are weak and unable to fully extend. You then risk suffering from joint pain , strains and muscle injuries. For example, sitting in a chair all day causes the hamstring muscles in the back of the thigh to tighten. It may then be more difficult to straighten the leg or fully straighten the knee, making it difficult to walk. Likewise, when tight muscles are suddenly called upon for an intense activity that stretches them, such as playing football, they can be damaged by this sudden stretch.
Damaged muscles may not be strong enough to support the joints, which can lead to joint damage. Stretching regular allow the muscles to remain long, thin and supple , which means that the effort will not exert too much force on the muscle itself. Healthy muscles will also help a person with balance problems avoid falls.
Stretching also has its importance on mental aspect. They can help reduce stress and anxiety , increasing muscle relaxation and promoting a feeling of general well-being. Stretching can also improve concentration and mental recovery, allowing muscles and joints to relax after intense physical or mental activity. With a body full of muscles, the idea of stretch daily may seem insurmountable.
