The Benefits of Flexibility Training: Morning Stretches

My morning includes five minutes of gentle stretching as soon as I roll out of bed. These are a few of my favorite that I like to start with:

• Side Stretch
• Fold Over + Touch Toes (try extending your arms behind you for a deep shoulder stretch)
• Cat Cow
• Child's Pose

I also incorporate stretching before and after working out. We've all heard that "stretching is good" or "make sure you stretch before you go on a jog," but do you truly know all the benefits that comes when from flexibility training?

Here are the main benefits from flexibility training that you should note:

→ Reduced risk of injury

→ Fewer aches and pains in your body and reduced muscle soreness from exercise

→ Improved balance and posture and range of motion

→ A more positive state of mind - we hold tension in our bodies and when we stretch and practice deep breathing, we are often able to work through or release that tension.

→ Improved circulation

→ Greater strength and overall improved physical performance