Stretching

Stretching is a powerful part of any exercise program. Stretching increases flexibility and improves range of motion of your joints. Stretching even improves circulation and helps relieve stress.

Before stretching, warm up with five to 10 minutes of light activity. Better yet, stretch after you exercise — when your muscles are warm and more receptive to stretching.

When you're stretching, keep it gentle. Breathe freely as you hold each stretch. Don't bounce. Expect to feel tension while you're stretching. If you feel pain, you've gone too far.