Stretching, Why Not? Part 2

Regardless of the many benefits we’ve pointed out people still are reluctant to make stretching a regular part of their life. In this post I will address the primary reasons given for not stretching and I’ll provide you with some solutions to overcome these obstacles.

Obstacle 1: “I don’t need to stretch.”
If you have never experienced either the benefits of flexibility or the problems associated with a lack of flexibility then this may be what you’re thinking. This mentality is often due to a lack of understanding of what flexibility truly is.
Solution: Flexibility is ultimately an issue of range of motion in your body’s joints. It may very well be that currently you are not pushing your body in such a way that tests your range of motion therefore you don’t feel your lack of flexibility. However, as you age and continue not stretching your range of motion will gradually diminish likely resulting in severely limited mobility, muscle aches and joint pain. I would urge you to give stretching a try and see what kind of benefits you experience. Give it a few weeks of regular stretching and you won’t be disappointed.

Obstacle 2: “I don’t know how to stretch.”
Stretching is not very difficult but it does take some know how. A lot of people think they know how to stretch but they are really doing more harm to their body than good.
Solution: Ask some one to show you. Look for some one who has some training in stretching like a personal trainer or a therapist. They can quickly show you a handful of stretches that will be easy for you to start with. If you don’t know some one who can teach you, come see us at our clinic, we’re happy to help.

Obstacle 3: “I don’t have time.”
I know you can’t possibly miss out on watching American Idol or reading about what Brad and Angelina did last week but I think you can find 5 minutes somewhere in your day.
Solution: If you do 10 stretches holding them each for 30 seconds that is 5 minutes. Cram it in when you finish exercising, while you watch TV, just before bed or after your morning shower. It’s a little pathetic if you can’t set aside 5 minutes and if that truly is the case you might have some bigger problems than a lack of flexibility.

Obstacle 4: “It hurts to stretch.”
That’s because you’re not flexible! All the more reason to stretch! This could also be because you are not doing the stretches properly.
Solution: Stretching should not be painful, but there will be a little bit of discomfort. You are pushing your muscles and joints to go farther than they are comfortable with so of course they will want to resist you. When you reach that point where you can really feel the tension and it is slightly uncomfortable don’t push any further. Find some one who is experienced with stretching to help make sure you are using proper techniques.

Obstacle 5: “Stretching is boring.”
We do live in a time where every other person seems to have some sort of ADD so people bore easily.
Solution: Talk to some one while you stretch. Watch TV. Listen to music. Do some controlled breathing and take advantage of a chance to relax. Lastly, It’s only 5 minutes!!!

All benefits have been stated and obstacles have been overcome. Now all that remains is to start stretching. Don’t worry you’re not on your own for this. My next post will describe some basic stretches to get started with. Stay tuned!