YOUR HEALTH and stretching tips

YOUR HEALTH and stretching tips

Stretches should be performed both before and after activity. Stretches before activity (either occupational or sport) can be specific to the muscles to be used in the activity. Stretching for general permanent elongation of tissue can be performed after activity when the core body temperature is higher.

Remember these tips the next time you need to stretch:

• Perform a 5-10 minute general full body warm up first (walking stairs, marching).
• Get into stretch position carefully and gently take up muscle slack until a stretch is felt.
• Pay close attention to posture and body alignment, only stretching one specific muscle at a time.
• Hold the stretch and take out slack as muscle relaxes. Don’t bounce while stretching. Simply hold and breathe deep to encourage relaxation.
• Use a chair or wall for support if necessary.

Stretches should be performed one time and performed at least two times a day in order to achieve optimal increases in range of motion.