Stretch in Seconds Print E-mail
by Diet Detective Editorial Staff   
Wednesday, 28 June 2006
Learn the three simplest full-body moves for all-day flexibility that anyone can accomplish!

Before there were any rules to stretching, people were gleefully pulling and twisting themselves in every direction possible. It was the age of "no pain, no gain" and a cold muscle that ached when you tugged on it always felt like you were doing something right. Now you're a little bit wiser and know the safest time to stretch is when the muscles are nice and warm after a workout. Unfortunately, that's usually about the time we realize we have a desk job to get back to. Stretching your entire body doesn't have to take an eternity. The following three stretches are great time-savers that allow you to loosen several muscles at once. (Before you start, warm up by taking a 5-minute walk beforehand. Perform each stretch 3 to 6 times to make sure you're good and loose.)

Sprawl (works the entire body)

Lie faceup with arms extended overhead (but on the floor) and legs straight. Reach your hands toward the wall behind you while simultaneously pointing your toes in the opposite direction. Imagine the goal is to get your hands and feet as far away from each other as possible. Contract your abdominals. Hold the stretch for 3 to 5 seconds.

Wingover (works the shoulders and triceps)

Sit tall with your legs crossed. Reach your left arm above your head and bend your left elbow, extending fingers down between your shoulder blades. Use your right hand to gently press your left elbow back.

One-Legged Curl (works the upper and lower back, buttocks and legs)

Lie faceup on the floor with your legs extended, arms at your sides. Bend your right knee and wrap your hands underneath your kneecap. Gently pull your right knee toward your chest as far as is comfortable. Don't let your head come off the floor. Hold for 3 seconds.

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Last Updated ( Wednesday, 28 June 2006 )
 
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