5 Ways to improve your flexibility!

First off let's get rid of the idea that people are either born with flexibility or simply don't have it. I am here to tell you that simply is not true! Granted there are individuals who have slightly more natural flexibility but chances are they worked hard and it was difficult for them as well. Getting the splits takes time and some find it more difficult than others. Despite that, it is possible for everyone to achieve the flexibility they want! If you have ever wanted to be more flexible here are the 5 best ways in which you can improve your flexibility today!

1. Stretch every day!

Our muscles are naturally tighter in our hips and lower back. Sitting every day increases the tightness of muscles in our lower backs. It is important to stand at least every hour for 5 minutes or more. Our bodies were not biologically equipped to be sedentary for hours on end. Flexibility is something that needs to be worked on at least 15 minutes every day. Our muscles have a tendency to become tight as a means of supporting our weight. Therefore if you want to see results you should do it every day. Pick a time of day and stick with it. You will be amazed at how flexible you will become in just a week!

2. Breath!

When you are stretching it is important to keep breathing. Holding your breath will result in the muscles being clenched and that is not what we want. You will find that if you take slow deep breaths you are able to stretch farther than before. This also helps the muscles to relax more and allows for more stretching to occur. Breathing while stretching can be very calming and help bring on a meditative state that is very relaxing.

3. Drink water!

Think of your muscles in terms of a machine. Water is the oil that is needed to lubricate the muscles and joints in order to stretch to max capacity. Water helps with inflammation of the muscles as well which encourages the muscles to relax and stretch. There are many benefits to being hydrated and drinking enough water every day is a small sacrifice to achieving your goals!

4. Always warm-up!

I can not stress enough the importance of warming up your body before attempting any stretching. During inactivity, your blood flow slows down. Think of your blood like honey, it is slow and oozy when cold. But when you warm it up it flows fast. Stretching when you are cold can result in serious injury which can last a lifetime. Therefore before you stretch go for a brisk walk and get your heart pumping. Do a little jumping in place or walk in a circle if you can't go outside. It doesn't need to be a very strenuous activity so long as your body starts feeling warmer than it was.

5. It should never hurt!

Despite the no pain no gain attitude, stretching should not be extremely painful. Your muscles can only stretch so far in one day. Do not force them if you feel you can not go further. This can also lead to injury and significantly set you back from where you initially started. Only go as far as you can, the rule of thumb is if you feel like you want to scream from the pain pull back. Stretching should be uncomfortable at first but never sharp stabbing pains.

I hope this was helpful to you in your stretching endeavors! Remember that when initially stretching the muscle it relaxes after 30 seconds. If it hurts and you can't hold it then simply lessen the pressure you are putting. Keep at it for a month and you will see amazing results! Remember to always be careful when stretching and listen to your body!

See you next time!