Easy Stretches for the Summer
Welcome the warm weather, sunshine and plenty of opportunities to stretch your muscles during the summer season. No matter your ability level, stretching is a simple way to keep you feeling limber and prevent pain. Get motivated with these summertime feel-good summer stretches:
Use daylight to your advantage. Summer months mean the sun stays out longer. Make the sunshine work for you. In the morning, ease your body into your day with a light walk. Mid-afternoon, try 10-15 minutes of yoga while getting fresh air. In the evenings, enjoy an after-dinner stretch to wind down. Even if you are on vacation, take advantage of your surroundings. Sunshine and stretching make for the perfect combination.
Summer heat benefits. Your body might feel more limber and less stiff during the summer months due to your body’s natural temperature regulation. Your increased muscle pliability could mean focusing on improved range of motion and deeper stretches. Warmer temperatures can help increase your blood flow and help your joints feel more flexible.
Stick to the basics. Stretching is meant to feel good, not painful. Even simple forward bends, spinal twists, toe raises and open chest stretches can do wonders. Once you feel you have mastered some of these, ease into deeper stretches, hold for longer periods of time and add full-body stretches that focus on multiple areas of your body. Remember that recovery and stretching are just as important as high-intensity workouts.
Hydrate. Warm weather coupled with stretching activities might raise your body temperature and loosen your joints and muscles. Make the most of your stretching routine by fueling your muscles from the inside out with plenty of water, which can help with muscle function and recovery while also preventing cramps.
Enjoy summer for all its benefits, including added opportunities to stretch. Think of it as a vacation for your muscles by adding and maintaining flexibility and energy.
