Sharon Hubbs-Kreft, Herbalist - Amazing Grace Herbals LLC

The sun is bright and shining today, it makes you want to get moving and motivated for the summer months ahead. Let's face it, we all put on a couple pounds over the winter; our body goes into hibernation mode and we eat almost all the wrong goodies  - throw in holiday cookes and bake sales and forget it, we can be healthy and fit all year until the winter holidays!!!

Time to start getting into shape again and begin to work on losing those extra pounds. I have compiled a list of simple stretches to get you moving before you begin any type of work out. For some, these stretches are just enough, while for others it is a great warm up for their fitness program.

Tips for stretching

-Warm your muscles slightly before stretching them. Walk or do some other light aerobic exercise for a few minutes, then start stretching.

-Ease yourself into the stretch, relax, and don't push or bounce. You should feel a stretch in the muscle but not pain.

-Exhale as you do the stretch. While you are holding the stretch, inhale deeply.

-Try closing your eyes while stretching. It helps you relax and reduces self-consciousness and the urge to compete.

-Take a moment to enjoy the good, warm feeling that comes after a good stretch.

Physical activity is good for your health, but it does stress and strain your body in ways that a more inactive lifestyle does not. If it's done too suddenly or without basic precautions, exercise can lead to injury or illness. Even if you have long been active and are fit, keep safety in mind. Do not assume that basic precautions do not apply to you. The most important ways to avoid injury and illness are to: learn about the risks of any new activity you begin. Take lessons, if appropriate. Always use the safety gear that is recommended for your chosen activity, such as helmets and knee pads. Learn about the use and proper fit of safety equipment, begin an exercise routine slowly and gradually increase intensity and most importantly, pay attention to your body's signals, such as pain and fatigue, when starting a new activity or when increasing the intensity of your physical activity. General muscle soreness is common when you try a new activity, but pain can mean you're injured. If you are very tired, you may be doing too much too soon.

Stretches

Do all stretches gradually. Do not push or bounce the stretch. You should feel a stretch, not pain. While you hold the stretch, inhale. Exhale as you relax. These are basic stretches, please consult with your health care provider to be sure you are well enough to begin a stretching/exercise routine.

Latissimus stretch

Triceps stretch

Calf stretch

Quadriceps stretch

Groin stretch

Hamstring stretch