Did you know that regular stretching can decrease your likelihood of falling and help you to remain flexible for years to come?
If you do not stretch, your muscles tend to contract and tense up. Experts advise to stretch after you’ve exercised because you want your muscles to be warmed up when you stretch so you do not get injured or experience muscle soreness.
Here are two stretches you can try:
Leg stretch
Stand up straight with both feet on the ground. Bend your left leg slightly and then lean your body left without falling over. Hold that stretch for a few seconds before doing the same on the other side. This stretch will lengthen your abductors.
Another great stretch is to stand up straight and put one foot in front of the other. When your feet are solidly in place, gently lean forward and then repeat on the other side. You should feel a stretch in the front leg and the back leg.
Chest stretch
Sit up straight in a chair with your feet on the ground and your hands on your knees. Bring both of your arms up and clasp them gently behind your head. As you inhale, try moving your elbows back to the wall behind you. As you exhale, bring your arms back to your knees. Do this exercise three times and then rest.
Click here to see this article and more on the Go Red for Women website.