Flexibility exercises are an essential part of any rounded workout. Flexibility is described as the ability to move your joints and muscles through their full range of motion. Certain forms of exercise, such as running, tighten the muscles and the joints. Remaining static as many of us do can hinder the flexibility of the joints. Sitting at a desk all day, for instance, can cause stiffness and tension associated with reduced flexibility. There are many exercises aimed at promoting the flexibility of the joints and muscles in the body:
Dynamic Stretching
Dynamic stretching (similar to ballistic stretching, where the bouncing is used to achieve the desired position) uses momentum, speed and active muscular effort to accomplish a stretch. It involves using controlled motion to gradually reach the limits of your range of motion. Examples of dynamic stretching include:
- Lunges
- Leg Swings (and abductions)
- Hip circles/twists
- Squats
- Shoulder circles
Yoga
- Bikram Yoga
- Power Yoga
- Ashtanga Yoga