Think of your muscles like spaghetti? Come on!
January 5th 2008 00:19
Signature Tune
Brought to you by Real Age, available free on the web.
Flexibility and YOU
Think of your muscles like spaghetti strands: They're pliablewhen they're warm, but fragile when they're not.
That's why it's so important to warm up your muscles for about 5 minutes before beginning any exercise. The simplest way is to do an easier version of the same activity you'll be doing (so walk if you're planning to jog, use light weights before heavy ones, etc.). Move your joints through the same motions they'll go through during the upcoming activity. This will raise your heart rate and increase the temperature of your muscles, making them less prone to injury.
Find out why warming up and stretching helps you burn more calories and sleep better.
More: When warming up, focus on your muscles, and take special notice of where you tense up. The shoulders and forehead are common tension points. You want stretching to release tension in your body, not shift it somewhere else. Notice this, and focus on the muscles you are working. And make sure to keep breathing freely and slowly. You might feel a little discomfort or muscle burn as you're loosening up, but not actual pain. If you ever feel pain during stretching, stop.
Reference: YOU: On a Diet. Roizen, M. F., Oz, M. C., New York: Simon & Schuster, 2006.
Answers to the find out puzzle are in the next post.
| 60 |
| Vote |
Add To: 
Subscribe to this blog
Comment by tlcorbin
Coffee Quip
A Global Citizen
Paranormal Paranormal
Is Why
Alaska Chronicle
Comment by katyzzz
Photography Tips
Health Focus
Poetry Lighthouse
MS Paint Art
Physio, chiropractic, massage are all helpful but generally their benefits are short lived.
I just wish I could offer more help.
Raven, you can still touch your toes, well done.
With love and sympathy to supplement Tisha's ministries,
katyzzz
Comment by Miswanderlust
Killer Beats
Ramble On
Hipnotherapy
Great article! Thanks for the link
Mis (trying to stay flexible) in my wandering!