The Benefits Of Stretching Routines
The benefits of stretching routines are good for young and older adults. There are many effects of not going through a stretch before you start an activity or an exercise program. Stretching routines promote good health in both young and old adults. In older adults, stretching is essential.
Types of Stretching Routines
There are many types of stretching routines and some of these target specific muscles and muscle groups. Among the more common routines are the dynamic stretching or warm up stretches, active stretching, passive stretching or cool down stretches and isometric stretching. Some other stretching routines are a combination of two or more of the types of stretches listed above.
These routines are basically focused more on the muscles that we exert during any activity, depending on what activity or sport we wish to start. Stretching exercises are a great way to start exercises because they these can also prepare our heart, limbs and back for the upcoming activity.
Benefits of Stretching Routines
Most benefits of stretching routines are largely focused before any strenuous activity or exercise. These routines benefit us by preparing our muscles for the exercise or activity which we plan to do. This help to prevent any pulled or strained muscles during the exercise proper. These stretching routines also help to warm up the muscles to prevent any soreness after the exercise.
Other benefits of stretching exercises are the proper circulation of blood to muscle tissues and flexibility of the muscles. Proper circulation promotes better healing of injuries and better movement especially for older adults. Older adults are more prone to pulled muscles and other back pain that result from doing too strenuous exercises and the wrong kind of exercises.
There are no disadvantages to stretching if these exercises and routines are done properly. Some people try to do stretching exercises with the wrong kind of idea that you need force to do so. In stretching, using force and straining the limbs can result in an injury or soreness even before you start the exercise program.
Some researchers have concluded that stretching routines are also beneficial for the mind. This is because most stretching, especially relaxed stretching is enjoyable for us. We stretch when we wake up in the morning and we also stretch when we feel tired. Stretching routines may also improve our breathing and lung capacity if we include breathing exercises with the stretching ones. This is good for those who may have a hard time coordinating their breathing during exercises.
