LiveWell Vermont

The short answer is YES! But, an ideal stretch routine requires a little bit of planning.  Stretching is a vital part of a healthy fitness regimen. When done properly, stretching can  reduce the risk of musculoskeletal injuries by increasing blood flow/circulation, improving muscular balance and posture, and improving muscle coordination. Stretching Reduces Fatigue Stretching increases blood supply and nutrients to muscles and joints  Stretching increases a joint’s ability to move through a greater range of motion  Stretching decreases tightness in tendons and muscles  Stretching Improves Muscular Balance and Posture Soft tissue structures often adapt poorly to gravity and bad posture habits  Stretching realigns soft tissue structures, therefore reducing effort to achieve & maintain proper posture throughout your day  Stretching Improves Muscle Coordination Stretching enhances the time it takes an impulse to travel to the brai...

Do you know that one of the most effective, inexpensive and pain-free ways to look and feel younger is to exercise and perform daily stretches that ward off kyphosis (rounding of the thoracic spine, resulting in a hunched shape); that keep the spine mobile; that lengthen the quadriceps to help sustain a tall, lifted posture; and that maintain a healthy range of motion in the hips? Shift your focus from “anti-aging” to “pro-aging” with these stretches that support an active body over a lifetime.  Stability Ball Chest Opener Sit on stability ball of appropriate size, feet planted on floor a little wider than hip width apart. Slowly roll down onto back while walking feet forward. (If you lack core strength, anchor your feet, toes touching wall.) Ball fully supports spine. Open arms straight out to sides, palms up. Allow back of head to rest on ball, and draw chin up slightly toward ceiling. Drop hips, allowing low back to round naturally against ball, or keep legs and glutes eng...