Simple Stretches to Improve Flexibility

If you're feeling tight and stiff, it's time to work on your flexibility. Increasing your flexibility can improve your range of motion, decrease your risk of injury, and even help you feel more relaxed. But what stretches should you do? In this blog post, we'll cover some simple stretches that you can do at home to improve your flexibility.

1. Hamstring Stretch

Tight hamstrings can cause lower back pain and decrease your ability to bend forward. To stretch your hamstrings, sit on the floor with your legs straight out in front of you. Slowly reach forward with your hands, trying to touch your toes. Don't worry if you can't reach them right away - just hold the stretch for 15-30 seconds and try to go a little further each time.

2. Quadriceps Stretch

Your quadriceps are the muscles on the front of your thigh, and tight quads can cause knee pain. To stretch your quadriceps, stand with your feet hip-width apart. Bend your right knee and bring your heel towards your buttocks, holding onto your ankle with your right hand. Hold the stretch for 15-30 seconds and switch legs.

3. Shoulder Stretch

If you spend a lot of time sitting at a desk or on your phone, you may have tight shoulders. To stretch your shoulders, stand with your feet hip-width apart and interlace your fingers behind your back. Slowly lift your hands away from your body and hold the stretch for 15-30 seconds.

4. Hip Stretch

Your hip flexors are the muscles that run from your lower back to the front of your hips, and tight hip flexors can cause lower back pain. To stretch your hip flexors, kneel on the floor with your right knee bent at a 90-degree angle in front of you and your left leg extended behind you. Lean forward into your right leg, feeling the stretch in your left hip flexor. Hold for 15-30 seconds and switch legs.

5. Child's Pose

Child's pose is a gentle yoga pose that can help stretch your back, arms, and hips. To do this pose, start on your hands and knees. Slowly lower your hips to your heels, reaching your arms out in front of you. Relax your forehead to the floor and hold the pose for 30-60 seconds.

Conclusion

Flexibility is an important part of overall health and wellness. Incorporating these simple stretches into your daily routine can help you feel more relaxed, prevent injuries, and improve your range of motion. Contact B Physical Therapy today to schedule an appointment with a physical therapist in Winter Park, FL, who can help you with your flexibility goals.