Hamstring and IT Band Stretch
Today I'd like to share some information about the importance of stretching. You need to incorporate several types of modalities into your fitness routine if you want to obtain the best results for your efforts. So far I've shared the importance of how you can burn excess fat and increase your metabolic rate by combining cardiovascular and strength training. You might ask, "how does stretching fit into the overall picture?"
Stretching in and of itself does not generate enough energy to burn fat, however, it is vital to a balanced fitness regimen. It stimulates water production in the joints for lubrication and protection, increases the production of elastin in the connective tissues, actually lengthens the muscles, and allows for a greater range of motion at the joint which ultimately helps in preventing injury.
The cool thing about stretching is that you only need a few minutes a day, even five minutes, to stretch a specific muscle group. The key to obtaining more flexibility in the body is consistency. You must do it regularly, I like doing it daily. Yoga is part of my routine and some of the best stretches for my body come from my practice.
Your muscles are much more supple after the body has generated some heat from your cardio and strength training exercises. It's best to stretch after your workouts to cool the body down. Carefully ease into them, and hold your stretches for at least twenty seconds or more.
We are approaching day seven of our Absolute Best Challenge. Are you stretching yourself to be the best you can be? I just weighed myself and I'm not seeing the progress I expected, however, that doesn't stop me from going forward and pushing on. The first week of a challenge is a way of easing into a new way of living. This new regimen of increased exercise and caloric deficits demands a change in habits. However, it's important to first get a baseline measurement of where you stand. When you finish your ninety days, you can then look back and notice the progress that was made along the way.
Keep going, you deserve to be your absolute best.
Clarita
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