Wellness Department -
On the Fifth Day of Wellness...12 Days of Wellness
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On this fifth day of wellness, stand up and stretch for at least five minutes and reenergize! Flexibility is a very important component of fitness, yet it is often overlooked or forgotten. As we age, good flexibility helps maintain muscle function, balance, agility, and activities of daily living and helps reduce the potential for injury. Therefore, a well-rounded program of stretching, that includes all the major joints (hip, back, shoulder, knee, upper trunk, and neck regions), should be included in everybody's fitness routine.
A good stretching program should always start with some kind of warm up activity, such as walking, for at least 5 minutes to increase circulation to the muscles and prevent strains. Then move into the stretch positions slowly and smoothly, never bounce as that may injure the muscle. Only stretch to the point of mild discomfort. If it is actual pain, you have stretched too far. Hold the stretch for as long as it is comfortable (10 - 30 seconds). Repeat each stretch about two or three times. This stretching routine should be performed at least 2 -3 days a week (five days a week is even better).
Activity for Today: Spend 5 minutes going through a stretching routine. If you're not sure what stretches to do, here are two different websites that have some great essential stretches you can do at your desk, the Mayo Clinic and WebMD.Another option is to check out some of the books we have in the wellness department on stretching.
No matter what method you choose, stretching for at least five minutes a day will help with overall fitness. It's also a good way to reenergize in the middle of the day and prevent injuries.
Mark on your Calendar: List 5 of the essential stretches you did.
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