Why To Stretch And When To Stretch?

All work and no stretch can make your workout a waste.

We don’t say it, research does. Furthermore, research also highlights that strength gains with elastic resistance bands give similar results as weight machines. While resistance bands can be at the pro level, you can always begin with premium exercise bands.

With that, the answer to ‘why to stretch’ encompasses physical and mental health benefits. For instance, stretch band workouts can help relax your muscles, improve flexibility, prevent joint pain, and enhance blood flow.

Let us stretch out all the details you need to know.

Why stretching is more important than you think?

Stretching is vital for overall health, offering a simple yet powerful way to maintain muscle strength, flexibility, and joint mobility. It improves posture and refreshes the mind, so much so, that we naturally tend to do a small stretch soon after waking up.

Feels good, doesn’t it?

Without stretching, our muscles would become hard and rigid, leading to difficulty in conducting daily tasks.

The key component here is fascial covering, a connective tissue covering every body structure. If you do not stretch, the fascial covering moulds your muscles like an immovable cast or plaster, preventing normal functionality.

When to Stretch?

The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) reviewed multiple studies to determine the best frequency and duration of stretching. It concluded that healthy adults must:

• Focus on all muscle-tendon groups at least two to three times per week.
• Spend around 60 seconds for each stretching exercise.

Apart from these specifications, stretching before and after workouts is well-advised.

How to Exercise With Stretching Bands?

As per physical therapists at a Harvard-affiliated hospital, it is important to focus on your lower body for optimal mobility and flexibility. Calves, hamstrings, hip flexors, and quadriceps are major points along with the neck, shoulders, and lower back.

Simple stretching bands offer a versatile and accessible tool for improving flexibility and relieving muscle tension. These exercises are gentle and suitable for beginners or those looking for light stretching routines.

Delts Stretch with Band

• Place the stretch band under your foot.
• Grab the other end with your opposite hand.

Then raise the band out to the side for 15-30 seconds.

Hamstring Stretch with Band

• Sit on the floor with your legs extended in front of you.
• Place the band around the bottom of your feet and hold onto the ends of the band with your hands.

Gently pull the band towards you while keeping your back straight for 15-30 seconds and then switch legs.

Chest Opener Stretch with Band

• Hold the band in both hands extended in front at slightly wider than shoulder-width.
• Slowly pull the band apart, opening your arms out to the sides.
• Hold for 15-30 seconds.

Note that, stretching is an exercise in itself and will demand prior warming up. Do a little walking or jogging before stretching to avoid any cramping or strain. For a more inclusive stretching session, order our Exercise Band today.