Stretching like an athlete

Scott Schwab

I know we have spoken about the benefits of stretching, but I did want to revisit the discussion with a couple of things that can add to the stretching. If you take the core stretches such as standing with your feet together and reaching for your toes, or in the seated position reaching for your feet in front of you; they are incomplete for stretching. There are some great things that you can do to incorporate on a daily basis. One thing that is important is to make sure the muscles are warm and pumping blood. One way is to do a small job, and do some butt kickers, high knees, and karaoke is one of my favorites. For those of you that don't know what karaoke is, you line up sideways and run with your one foot leading the way while taking the other foot in front and back as you move quickly about 20 yards. Face the same direction and move back the other direction, this time leading with the other foot. Once you have done some of these warm ups, take slow long steps that will stretch your hamstrings and quad muscles. Another exercise that I like is to walk, but with an exaggerated bounce that stretches my calves. Another great stretch is to be in the push up position and push your calves downwards as you are standing on your tip toes. It is also useful to run on your tip toes and do some jump roping. If you do not own a jump rope, go and get one today. It is such a good exercise and you can do it anywhere. When you are stretching make sure you are taking adequate time with your hips, groin, and lower back muscles. As we age these are some of the areas that slow people down and prevent a workout schedule. Get in the habit now to do the stretching needed so that you can have a lifelong workout regiment. Stretching is just as needed as cardio, abs, and weights. Just make sure that you time your workout and leave a little time at the beginning and end for the stretching. I would also suggest getting involved in a yoga class or a class dedicated to improving mobility and flexibility.