8 Exercises That Show You Exactly What Muscles You Are Stretching
Usually we think of stretching the muscles after exercise, so that they
don’t hurt afterwards. But the reality is that muscle stretching is
recommended every day, regardless of whether we have exercised or
not.
Stretching every day prevents the muscles from shortening and also helps
prevent injuries, since many times these are produced by lack of mobility.
It also promotes the elasticity and flexibility of the whole body and
reduces postural pain.
In addition, obviously, stretching is an exercise in itself and also
helps you stay in shape. If you want to start stretching your muscles,
these pictures can help you achieve it.
Below you will find 8 exercises for stretching the muscles.
1. Neck side muscles Stretch
Muscles highlighted: Sternocleidomastoid muscle and upper trapezius. In
the sitting position, straightening your back and helping with your left
arm, tilt your head to the left, trying to touch your ear with your
shoulder. Repeat the exercise in the opposite direction.
2. Neck front muscles Stretch
Muscles highlighted: Sternocleidomastoid muscle. Put your hands on your
hips, straighten your back and start gently tilting your head back. To
stretch was stronger, you can help yourself with your hands, putting your
hands on your forehead.
3. Pectoral muscles Stretch
Muscles highlighted: Pectoral muscles and lats. Stand straight, facing
the wall and, laying your right hand on it, slowly turn away from the
wall. Repeat with the other hand.
4. Camel pose
Muscles highlighted: Rectus Abdominus and External Obliques. These
stretch is best reserved for people who have good flexibility already. Sit
on your heels and place your hands behind you as you push your hips up and
forward. Avoiding putting too much pressure on your lumbar spine. If
you’ve neck problems don’t drop your head back.
5. Neck back muscles Stretch
Muscles highlighted:Trapezius Muscle. Start by standing with you feet
together. Keeping your spine long, slowly sit your hips back and round
your upper back, tucking your chin to your chest at the same time.
6. Shoulder side Stretch
Muscles Highlighted: Side Deltoid. Straighten your arm across your body,
and slightly press it with your other hand to intensify the stretch.
Repeat the exercise with the other hand.
7. Triangle Pose
Muscles Highlighted: Work your external obliques. Start with a wide
stance, your front foot straight ahead and your back foot at 90 degrees.
Place your hand on your front leg or the floor as you sit back into your
front hip, keeping your back straight.
8. Down Dog Variation At The Wall
Muscles Highlighted: Stretch your pectoralis and latissimus dorsi.
Position yourself far enough from a wall or rack so that as you touch the
wall your body becomes parallel to the ground. Move into this position by
hinging at the hips and keeping your spine straight.
Once in position, push your chest forward creating a slight arch in your
upper back, stretching your lats and chest muscles. Whenever you’ve tight
hamstrings try bending at the knees.
