Stretching is crucial to maintain flexibility, prevent injury, and enable range of motion.

However, many people feel that they are short on time, which is why they are tempted to skip the stretching, so they can use the extra minutes to complete their workout. If you are one of these people, you will want to save the remaining time to stretch out those muscles after exercising or even just whilst sitting around at home. Why? Read on.

Healthy Benefits Of Stretching

Improves balance

Studies show that stretching can help improve your balance. Researchers believe that keeping the muscles loose can contribute to the coordination of fine muscles. It means that those who regularly stretch can avoid loss of balance because the muscles are functioning well.

Boosts energy level

People who have trouble staying energized during the day can do a few stretches for some energy boost. Stretching those tired muscles can help improve blood circulation, allowing your mind and body to be more alert. Muscles tend to tighten when you are tired, and this will make you feeling more lethargic, so make sure to do some stretching while at work to stay productive.

Reduces risk of injury

Incorporating stretching into your workout will prepare your mind and body for the exercise. It is not advisable, however, to perform static stretches before a workout as you are straining those cold muscles and might lead to injury. Focus on doing dynamic stretches, which are movements that prepare your muscles and joints for a more strenuous activity. These include squats, lunges, jumping jacks, arm circles, and more.

Promotes blood circulation

Blood circulation is important when it comes to maintaining body functions. Stretching will also help reduce the muscle soreness after workout, and make you recover faster. Improved blood circulation will help promote organ function and cell growth. In addition, your heart rate will be lower as it will not work double time, so your body is kept efficient.

Relieves tight muscles

Stretching can also help relieve muscle stiffness and reduce joint pains. However, it is also important to stretch properly. The best way to loosen up those muscles is to focus on mobility by performing range-of-motion exercises, such as knee lifts and shoulder shrugs. A foam roller can also help work the soft tissue.

Improves stamina

As mentioned earlier, loosening up your tendons and muscles will help improve blood circulation. The result is reduced muscle fatigue, and recovery time. The longer you workout, the more calories you will burn, and this adds to muscle fatigue. You can delay the onset of muscle soreness by stretching before and after workout. When oxygen is flowing properly through your blood, your stamina improves.

Corrects posture

Stretching will help improve your posture by keeping your muscles loose. It lengthens those tight muscles and allow them to function well. Keeping your lower back, shoulders, and chest loose will also help keep the spine aligned. This will improve your posture as the pains and aches are alleviated. With reduced discomfort, there will also be a reduced desire to slouch or hunch.

Helps reduce blood sugar levels

Exercising can regulate your blood sugar levels and keep it within the normal range. However, you can maximize your workout session by stretching those tight muscles before and after exercising. One study in 2011 revealed that pre-diabetic and diabetic patients who stretched after drinking a sugary beverage reported having lower glucose levels than those who only did a mock stretch.

Lowers stress levels

Stress can cause your muscles to contract, and make you feel uneasy and tense. The tension can have a negative impact on your mind and body. The good news is that stretching can help ease the stress by encouraging the release of endorphins, allowing you to think, move, and sleep better.

Also read: WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF ROWING? 5 REASONS TO ROW!