1. Wiggle out of a Tight Spot
Who cares if you can bend over and twist yourself in a knot like Gumby? That big green rubber toy really had something going on though, something that every body needs to develop is flexibility. Stiff muscles and tight tendons will not only cause you pain and discomfort, but can also be more prone to injury. Flexibility exercises need to be an integral part of any exercise routine. All athletes need to incorporate some kind of stretching into their training.
2. Top it Off
Upper body stretching exercises can be done standing up easily. Put one arm in front of your body and tug gently at the elbow, pulling it across your body. Repeat on the other arm. Or reach for the sky. The body really knows it needs stretching out because even a baby will put his arms out to his sides or to the ceiling as he wakes. The triceps and abs get a nice pull by putting your elbow near your head and pushing downward on the elbow with the opposite hand. Do that on either side a few times a day and you'll be giving Gumby a run for it.
3. Get to the Bottom of Things
Stretch your thighs, calves and rear end throughout the day by standing about two feet from a wall and leaning into it. Bend one knee and push downward. Switch sides and you'll feel like a cat after a count of 15 on each side. While stretching, reach behind and grab one foot. Pull up on it to give your quadriceps a good stretch. Never bounce during stretching time. A simple pull, squeeze or push is all that is required. Hold and gently release each stretch.
4. Bend the Rules
Professionals and avid exercise enthusiasts all agree that flexibility exercises should be performed before and after each activity. The warm up gets the blood flowing and prepares your body for the coming strain you are about to heap upon it. A little aerobic movement, coupled with some flexibility moves will improve performance in any sport. Cooling down lets your body know that the rigorous activity is about to be over. Recovery begins as you slowly stretch and wind down.
5. Romance the Stone
Gumby may have some insider information about all the moves a flexible body can make in the bedroom. Sinewy, healthy stretched muscles on a lean clean body make for a much more exciting sex partner. Flexibility equals diversity in the sex department. Hard, tight muscles cannot perform the kind of movements that make for a satisfying romp in the hay the way that flexible, healthy muscles can.
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