Stretching is an important step for athletes of all types, from amateur joggers to professional football players. It can increase your range of motion and flexibility, prepare the body for exercise and help prevent injury. Several stretches can prepare the different areas of your body for your workout.
Neck Stretch
Stretching your neck can help relieve tension and can be a good way to alleviate some of the pains of headaches. Drop your head down, with your chin touching your chest. Pull your head down to stretch the back of your neck and hold for a second or two. Then, drop your head to the right and repeat the action. Repeat this all the way around, dropping your head to the back and to the left for a full stretch of the neck.
Shoulder Stretch
The shoulder stretch can be useful during restless moments at work or school. Pull your left arm across your body, grasping the ball of your right shoulder with your hand. Pull gently until you feel a stretch. Then, switch arms and do the same thing on the other side. Perform this stretch a couple of times on each side for full range of motion.
Chest Stretch
Perform a chest stretch before and after you do push-ups, the bench press, or any other kind of chest workout. This stretch will require a partner. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Stretch your arms out behind you, parallel to the floor. Your partner should be holding your arms at the wrist. Have your partner gently pull on your arms, pushing your wrists toward one another. This will stretch the pectoral muscles. Repeat this stretch after a short rest to gain full range of motion in your chest.
Back Stretch
Lie down on your back. Pull your legs up with your knees to your chest and hold. Stay like that for 10 seconds and then release. You can vary this exercise by pulling one leg up at a time. Rocking back and forth can also ease any tension in your back and serve as a quick massage.
