Stretches can be either static, where the person holds a still position, or dynamic, meaning that the person carries out the stretch while moving. A daily stretching routine may incorporate both static and dynamic stretches. Stretching can be mildly uncomfortable at first, but it should not be painful. An individual stretch will typically last 10–30 seconds. It can help repeat a stretch routine, as it becomes easier to extend the muscles once they have correctly loosened up.
Here are some variations of a full-body daily stretching routine that a person may use. They include a daily entire body routine and examples of specific stretch routines for runners, athletes, and those looking to improve their hip flexibility.
Benefits of daily stretching routine
Stretching on a daily basis will loosen the muscles and increase a person’s range of motion. These effects can lower the risk of injuries such as sprains, which affect ligaments, or strains, affecting muscles or tendons. Stretching can also reduce pain from chronic conditions, such as osteoarthritis and lower back pain. If any of the stretches cause discomfort, it is essential to stop immediately. Stretching should be within the range of individual ability, and even gentle stretching can have benefits.
Entire body daily stretching routine.
People can start this routine at the top of the body and gradually reduce the likelihood of missing major muscle groups. Starting a daily stretching routine may seem exhausting, particularly for those who already have a busy schedule. However, it only requires a person to set aside 10–15 minutes each day. Many people choose to fit this in first thing in the morning or just before bed.
Neckroll
First, Stand up straight with the feet shoulder-width apart and the arms keeping loose. Then, dip the chin slightly toward the chest. Gently roll the head in a clockwise motion for one rotation, taking about 7 seconds. Rest for 5 seconds, then roll the head anticlockwise in the same motion. Repeat this three times.
Shoulder roll
Again, stand up straight with arms keeping loose. Without bending the arms, slowly raise the shoulders and then roll them back in a circular motion. Roll the shoulders backward five times and then reverse the movement, rolling them forward. Do two sets of 10 rolls,
Behind-head tricep stretch
Extend the left arm straight upward, with the elbow close to the head. Bend the left elbow so that the left-hand drops behind the neck. Using the right hand, hold the left upper arm behind the elbow and gently press down, pushing the left hand farther down the back. Hold for 10 seconds, then rest for 5 seconds before repeating with the right arm. Do two sets of 10 bends.
Standing hip rotation
Stand with the feet shoulder-width apart and place the hands on the hips. Slowly move the hips forward, then rotate them clockwise for three rotations. Bring the hips back to the center and then repeat the movement anticlockwise.
Standing hamstring stretch
Stand up straight. Keeping the right foot flat on the ground, bend the right knee slightly and extend the left leg forward. Flex the left foot, with the heel on the ground and the toes facing upward. Place the hands on the right thigh and lean slightly forward, raising the left toes. Hold for 20 seconds, then rest for 10 seconds. Repeat the movement with the other leg. Repeat the entire sequence three times. It is one of the essential parts of your daily stretching routine. It will help you to stay away from hamstring cramps.
Quadriceps stretch
Stand upright. For balance, hold onto a solid structure or wall with the right hand. Keep the right leg straight with the foot flat on the ground and bend the left knee, bringing the foot up behind. Take the foot with the left hand and gently press it toward the left buttock, keeping the hips and knees in line. Hold it for 30 seconds. After that, take a rest for 20 seconds and start with the opposite leg. Repeat this sequence thrice.
Ankle roll
Stand with the left foot flat on the ground and the right heel raised so that the pressure is on the toes. Keeping the toes on the ground, roll the right foot in a clockwise direction for ten rotations, then repeat anticlockwise. Then switch to the left foot and repeat the exercise.
Child’s Pose
It is a yoga position, can be a relaxing way to end a daily stretching routine. Kneel with the toes pointed back, so the tops of the feet lie flat along the ground. Sit back against the heels. Push the buttocks back and lower the chest toward the floor, sliding the arms forward. Hold the stretch for 30 seconds and repeat three times, with 10-second rest periods between the stretches.
Apart from these stretchings, you can also do some advanced level stretching works. There are three more stretches that you can add to your daily stretching routine.
Knee-to-chest stretch
Lie flat on the back with the legs straight. Keeping the right leg straight along the ground, bend the left leg, and place the hands below the knee. Pull the left knee gently toward the chest and hold for 10 seconds. After that, replace the portion and repeat the stretch with the right leg. Repeat the sequence five times.
Hip abduction
Lie down on the left side of the body, with the right leg resting on the left leg. Bend the bottom (left) leg slightly and lift the extended top leg to approximately 45°, keeping the body on the side. Keep the leg elevated for 5 seconds, then lower it for 2 seconds. After doing it four times, turn onto the right side of the body and repeat the entire sequence.
Standing iliotibial (IT) band stretch
Start by standing upright. Then cross the left leg behind the right leg and lift the left arm above the head. Lean the upper body to the right, avoiding any twisting or forward motion. Hold for 30 seconds, then repeat on the other side. Repeat the entire sequence four times. If it is challenging to balance in this stretch, use a wall for support.
Therefore, this is all about your daily stretching routine.
