Stretching and flexibility

I really love stretching after an exercise session.

Exhalation is important – you can stretch further each time you breathe out.

Stretching is a powerful part of any exercise programme.

Most aerobic and strength training programmes inherently cause your muscles to contract and tighten. Stretching after you exercise may help improve the range of motion around your joints and boost circulation.

As a general rule, stretch your major muscle groups after you exercise as it can help you to optimise your joints’ range of motion.

If you don’t exercise regularly, you may want to stretch a few times a week after a brief warm-up to maintain flexibility.

When stretching, keep it gentle. Breathe freely as you hold each stretch for around 30 seconds. Try not to hold your breath. Don’t bounce or hold a painful stretch.

Expect to feel tension – if you feel pain, you’ve gone too far.