Today's society is plagued by postural imbalances primarily due to sedentary lifestyles caused mostly by advancements in technology. A high percentage of people today are spending a lot of time in office related jobs, which requires them to sit for long periods of time. More than ever before flexibility training has become a key component in decreasing muscle imbalances and joint instability which in turn decreases the chances for overuse injuries. Without flexibility training, it may not be possible for you to reach your fitness goals without getting an injury. It is important to make sure your fitness trainer integrates flexibility training in your personal fitness program.
What Is Flexibility?
Flexibility is the ability to move joints and muscles through their full range of motion. As you become more flexible, you will find it easier to reach things on high shelves, to stoop or squat down, or perhaps to tie your shoes. You will also have a better sense of balance and coordination. To stay flexible, you need to stretch all of your major muscles. These include the muscles of your arms, back, hips, front and back of your thighs, and calves. Try to stretch for 10 to 12 minutes a day, after a brief warm-up. Do some stretches first thing in the morning, take a stretch break instead of a coffee break, or stretch in the office for a few minutes. Stand up from your desk and stretch your legs, chest and arms for five to ten minutes for every hour of sitting. Or participate in activities that include stretching, such as dance, martial arts, tai chi, or yoga. Yoga is my personal favorite. Yoga increases flexibility, lubrication of the joints, ligaments and tendons. Other wonderful benefits of yoga are complete flushing out of toxins and excellent muscle toning. In fact yoga equals meditation because both work together in achieving unity of the mind, body and spirit- a state of eternal bliss.
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