City Way Health Clinic share why stretching is even more important in the winter months.

This time of year can be the perfect opportunity to look at reviewing your exercise regime to protect and benefit you for the colder months ahead.

 

Winter does not mean you have a readymade excuse to stop exercising, it just means that things may need to change slightly.

Stretching is essential at any time, but even more so in the winter months.

Most of us understand that we should stretch with exercise, however most of us do not realise why. There are four main reasons for exercising including preparatory stretching, maintenance stretching, developmental stretching and PNF stretching.

While the exact mechanics of what happens when we stretch are not fully understood, it can be suggested that regular stretching increases flexibility, both by making muscles more supple and by retraining the nervous system to tolerate stretching further.

Although everyone will react differently to each form of exercise, the main benefits may include:

  • Reduced muscle tension and increased range of movement in the joints
  • Enhanced muscular coordination
  • Stretching can be done anywhere and by anyone
  • Enhanced physical fitness and development of body awareness
  • Reduced risk of injury to joints, muscles, tendons and muscular soreness
  • Increased circulation of the blood to various parts of the body
  • Increased energy levels (resulting from increased circulation

City Way can help you develop the most appropriate exercise regime for you and your body.