TLC For Your Muscles

… Deep Breath… ah, you've finished your workout, you feel great. Time for a shower, right?

Wait, wait, wait, you are not going to stretch? A big no-no in my book. Stretching not only gives amazing benefits, it should be part of your exercise routine.

After every workout I take at least 20 minutes to stretch. It doesn't need to be saved for post-workout either, you can stretch when you wake up, before a workout, anytime is a good time to give your muscles some TLC.

So why is it so important and what does it do for you?

The MayoClinic offers these benefits:

• Increases flexibility: Daily tasks like lifting, bending, rushing, all become less tiresome and straining.
  
• Improves range of motion: This benefits your joints, promoting, better balance and coordination.
  
• Improves circulation: This increases blood flow to your muscles which can speed up recovery of muscle injury.
  
• Encourages better posture: Regular stretching allows muscles to stay loose, helping posture and eliminating aches and pains.
  
• Relieves stress: Stretching helps alleviate tension that can often coincide with stress.
  
• May prevent injury: It prepares your muscles and joints for activity by lessening the chances of a pull or tear.
  

A myth that is often associated with stretching is that you must do it before you begin your workout, but instead you need to get your muscles warm, try jumping jacks and a brisk walk on the treadmill for five or so minutes, then do some stretching. It doesn't prevent soreness but can help ease pain that may be associated with it.

Three key elements to a great stretch routine are taking it slow, breathing and staying stagnant. Relax your body and breath while you reach, don't bounce, when you begin to feel a stretch (tightening) in the muscle, hold for 20-30 seconds.

Check out these stretches, complete with pictures and start reaping the benefits of a good stretch.