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Five steps to finding neutral position when sitting or standing.
The benefits of adding stretching and strengthening to your workout routine.
For many, the new year is a time for resolutions and often, those resolutions include improving one’s health. For some, that might be changing dietary habits. For others, it might be adding exercise into the daily routine.
If you are looking to add a fitness regime to your routine, consider adding stretching and strengthening along with any cardio you may be considering. There are many benefits to stretching and strengthening, including increasing your flexibility, improving your posture, reducing stress and body discomforts, and much more.
Read on to learn more about the benefits of stretching and strengthening.
Benefits of Stretching
- Lengthens soft tissues
When you lengthen your soft tissues, you are improving the localized blood flow. Additionally, you are stimulating the nervous system which assists in the relaxation of the muscle so the muscle works more efficiently during activity.
- Improves range of motion
As your range of motion improves, your body has greater strength and improved physical performance. You will also notice improved posture and balance.
- Increases muscular health
As your muscular health improves, you reduce the likelihood of suffering from an MSD injury. Your muscles can withstand more physical stress which also helps alleviate muscle soreness and discomfort.
Benefits of Strengthening
- Muscular benefits
Your muscles benefit in numerous ways from a strengthening regime. Those benefits include:
- The ability for muscles to work more efficiently for longer periods.
- The ability to withstand more stress.
- The ability for muscles to repair and recover faster.
- Health benefits
Your overall health improves when a strengthening program is added to your routine. Your health improves with:
- Lower weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol
- Better sleep
- Boosted metabolism and energy
- Psychological benefits
Along with your physical benefits of a strengthening program, you experience a mental health boost as well. Those benefits include:
- Improved mood
- Increased confidence
- Reduced stress and anxiety
If you are looking to add a stretch and strengthening program to your routine, remember to start small as to not cause injury. Do not force any stretches or lift too heavy of weights. Your body will respond best by gradually building up to your desired goals.