Simple Stretches to Keep You Flexible

Stretching is so simple that anyone can do it virtually anywhere.  Once you realize the benefits and discover how fun stretching really is, you won’t want to quit.

 ¨      Before getting out of bed in the morning, stretch your legs and toes.  After getting out of bed, stretch as high as you can.

 ¨      Shrug your shoulders high and drop.  Rotate your shoulders in clockwise and counterclockwise circles, as well.

 ¨      Lift your arms as high over your head as possible and drop straight down at your sides.

 ¨      Clasp your hands behind your back. Slowly bring your arms up. You can get more of a stretch by leaning your upper body slightly forward as you lift your arms.

 ¨      A variation of the above is to grasp a towel between your hands behind your back.  Have one arm high (over your shoulder) and the other arm lower.

 ¨      Lift your right arm over your head and place your right hand between your shoulder blades. With your other hand gently push downward on your elbows.  Hold for 15 seconds, then switch arms.

These are just a few of the many excellent stretching exercises. Find some stretching ones you enjoy and incorporate them into your routine.