Flexibility and why
JOSEPH PILATES once said ‘ If your spine is inflexibly stiff at 30 , you are old ; if it is completely flexible at 60 , you are young ’ and I totally agree . Everything hangs off your spine , arms , ribs , pelvis , legs , etc . Keeping the spine mobile and also supported by a strong core , but not encumbering the spine ’ s movement with over-tight muscles , is vital .
Simple daily stretches can make a real difference and do not need to take a huge amount of time . A calf stretch on a step , dropping the heel off the edge , will stretch out the rear lower leg muscles .
Tight hamstrings can make bad backs ! Lift one foot up onto a step and reach both hands out towards your toes to stretch the bag of the upper leg , the hamstrings . Keep the back flat and aim to hinge at the hip .
To alleviate rounded forward shoulders place the hands , palm flat , on your lower back and draw the elbows towards each other , which will stretch out the chest and front shoulder .
Increased flexibility makes a huge impact on overall wellbeing . Any increase in activity can make a difference with flexibility . Go forth and stretch ! Advice : Andy McNeil macksfitness . co . uk
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