Stretching can improve your joint range of motion, balance, flexibility and decrease your risk of injury. Here are some tips to help you stretch:
Warm up your muscles before stretching with 10 minutes of gentle exercise like walking. Hold a sustained stretch for 10 to 30 seconds and don’t bounce when stretching. Only stretch to the point of mild discomfort. If it hurts you’re pushing too hard. Breathe normally when stretching and balance your routine by working opposing muscle groups each time you stretch.
Remember to check with a health professional before stretching if you have or have had an injury, or are unsure how to stretch properly.