5 Stretches for Improved Flexibility

Feeling sore or tight? During quarantine, you might have increased physical activity or become more sedentary while working from home. Whether you’ve overused muscles or experienced inactivity, both instances can lead to nagging aches and pains.

Regular chiropractic treatment can help release unwanted tension, while improving your flexibility. Adding stretches to your morning routine or daily workout is an easy way to care for your muscles. Here are 5 moves you can try at home.

1. Butterfly Stretch

This stretch is for the hips and back. While sitting on the floor, bring the bottom of your feet together and keep your knees down.

Hold your ankles for balance and try to push your knees as far to the floor as you can. Everyone’s level of flexibility is different, so only go as far as you feel comfortable.

2. Knees to Chest Stretch

Lie down on your back and interlock your fingers around your knee. With your neck relaxed and head on the ground, bring the knee as close to your chest as you can.

This move will stretch the hips, lower back and hamstrings. Make sure to repeat the motion on your other leg.

3. Standing Hamstring Stretch

This is a great stretch to do in the morning. While standing, bend down as far as you can towards the floor and grab the back of your legs. If you are more flexible, try to touch your hands to the ground.

To avoid lightheadedness, make sure to come back up slowly from the bent-over position. This stretch will target your neck, back, hamstrings, calves and glutes.

4. Triceps Stretch

Whether sitting or standing, get into a position that is comfortable. Raise your arms above your head and reach your fingertips down one at a time to touch the top of your back.

With your other arm, slowly pull your elbow towards you. This is a great upper body stretch for your neck, shoulders and triceps.

5. Forward Lunge

Lunges are a great warm-up before exercising. Start with your feet together, then take a large step forward with one leg. Bend both knees until they are at a 90-degree angle. Repeat this stretch with the other leg forward to warm up your hips and quads.
 
As you continue these stretches, you may notice your body becoming looser and more flexible over time. If you have any questions about chiropractic adjustments and other pain relief techniques, contact The Chiropractic Health Center of Glastonbury today!