Flexibility is an important component of fitness. While you don’t need to be able to perform splits and mind-bending yoga poses just to call yourself fit, a decent amount of stretch will be beneficial for your workouts. It will give you a greater range of motion which will allow you to get the most of each exercise. You will also be able to target multiple muscle groups better. Most stretches are freeform with no equipment used other than a yoga mat. TRX straps can be added to the equation in order to provide support and keep the user safe. They can help obtain a great degree of stretch as well.
Warm Up Before Stretching
Remember that the muscle fibers are fragile. They can tear if you stretch them without any preparations. You need to warm them up and get them primed for the activity. This should be movements with low intensity that you can repeat without much effort. For example, you can do a slow jog for a few minutes. If you can’t go outside, you can even march in place instead. Then ensure mobility around your joints by moving your arms in circles with hands reaching out. Do circles with your hips and your neck as well.
Do It After Regular Workouts
TRX stretches can be added onto the end of your regular workouts as well. You won’t need to perform a dedicated warm-up session since your body is probably more than ready for stretching. If you are going to the gym, then just do your usual routine on the treadmill, the weight racks, and the machines. Once you’re done, head over to the TRX stretches and use the straps to help you stretch better and safer. You can find lots of ideas for how you can target the chest, the hamstrings, the lower back, the lats, and other areas of the body. Whatever feels tight can be improved.
Relax and Never Force Anything
Just make sure that you stay relaxed throughout all of these. Stretching is not meant to be forced. You cannot push yourself to the limit every session in the hopes of gaining better flexibility right away. You need to chip away at it bit by bit. Allow your body to dictate your pace. If you feel any pain, then back off and try something else. Don’t bounce around and don’t overstretch. You might do more harm than good if you go too far.
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