Stretching and Flexibility Warming up prepares the muscles

Stretching and Flexibility

Warming up prepares the muscles for the work that is to come.

STEP ONE Warming up also serves to jump-starts the metabolism. A proper warm-up includes 5 minutes of light aerobic activity (walking, jogging) followed by stretching all the major muscles.

STEP TWO Always perform a 5 -10 minute warm-up before stretching The warm-up functions to increase blood flow to the muscles, preparing them for stretching and helps to prevent injuries.

• Stretch all the muscles. • Stretches should be smooth and slow, no bouncing. • Hold each stretch 10 -20 sec.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Stretching does the following: Reduces muscular tension and promotes both mental and physical relaxation. Increases the range of motion of muscles and joints, which can result in better posture and physical fitness. Reduces the risk of muscle strains. Reduces the risk of low back problems by enhancing the flexibility of the hamstring and low back muscles. Improve recovery from vigorous physical activity and provide relief from muscular soreness by promoting circulation within the muscles.

There are many types of stretches: 1. Neck 2. Upper Body 3. Chest and shoulder 4. Tricep 5. Low Back 6. Quadricep 7. Hamstring 8. Calf

Name the stretches you do, before you start your activity. Upper and Lower Body.