Try These Easy Stretches You Can Do Every Single Day
Whether you’re trying to improve flexibility, loosen your joints, or become more comfortable moving around, these easy stretches are perfect.
Since these are so simple, you can do these every day or even twice a day, depending on your flexibility level.
Let’s get right into the easy stretches you should do every day.
Runner’s Stretch
No running required, we promise. This runner’s stretch is great for releasing your hamstrings and the tension you carry in your lower back. Ultimately, it will also help lengthen your spine, relieving your entire lower body.
Start by standing up straight with your right foot forward in a lunge position. Place your fingertips on the floor, or use some firm cushions if you’re unable to touch the ground. Take a deep breath, then as you exhale, straighten your right leg and stand up, keeping your feet in that same position.
Repeat this for a total of five repetitions, then switch to your left leg.
Side Lunge Stretch
The side lunge stretch is similar to a regular lunge, but instead of bending your knee and leaning forward, you’ll be leaning to the right and left. It’s great for stretching your inner thighs and increasing overall flexibility in your legs.
While keeping your upper body completely straight, with your legs apart, slowly start to shift your weight into a slow lunge, but to the right on your bent knee. Hold for thirty seconds, then repeat on the other side.
As you stretch, you’ll feel the pull on the straightened leg on the inside. Listen to your body, and don’t push too hard as you attempt this stretch.
Calf Stretch
The calf stretch helps to release the tension you hold in your lower legs. If you stand on your feet all day or do a ton of walking, you’ll know just how tight your legs can get.
Find a sturdy wall and stand about an arms length away from it. Take your right foot and place it in front of you, leaning as you bend your right knee slightly. Keep your left leg completely straight. Place your hands on the wall in front of you and keep your core tight as you lean into the stretch, feeling it pull on your left calf.
Hold this stretch for at least thirty seconds, doing your best to keep both feet flat on the ground. Make sure to switch before you go on with your day!
Chest and Shoulder Stretch
Is your upper body screaming for some relief? Then this chest and shoulder stretch is for you. What’s great about this stretch is you can easily change where this stretches just by moving your hands by a couple of inches.
You can sit or stand for this stretch. Start by interlacing your fingers together while bending your elbows, and place them behind your head. Move your elbows backward and focus on squeezing your shoulder blades together.
Be gentle as you move through this exercise, and if you need a different area stretched, try moving your hands higher or lower on your back. Make sure to move your arms to the right and left as you work through this stretch.
Sideways Neck Stretch
Looking down at your phone too often? This sideways neck stretch is perfect for you. It helps to release the pressure and strain you put on your neck by using a computer or phone all day.
Start by standing with your feet hip-width apart, tighten your core, and pull your shoulders back as you keep your back straight. Lean your head slightly forward and gently tilt your right ear toward your shoulder. Hold this position for about ten seconds before returning to the starting position and leaning toward the left.
To deepen the stretch, use your arm to gently pull your head further down. Don’t push too hard, though; you don’t want to overstretch and end up harming your neck muscles.
Lying Knee to Chest Stretch
Get ready to release tension in your hamstrings, lower back, quads, and hip flexors. This stretch is perfect for those days you feel too tight and need extra relief all over.
Find a comfortable spot on the ground and lie on your back. Take your right leg and gently pull your knee toward your chest until you can feel it in your lower back. If you’re having trouble, feel free to slightly bend your left knee to make the stretch more comfortable.
Hold this position for 30 seconds, then slowly release to the starting position. Don’t forget to repeat with your other leg.
Forward Hang Stretch
Try the forward hang stretch to get a deeper stretch on your back.
Start by standing with your feet about hip-width apart and slightly bend your knee. Connect your hands behind your lower back, or hold on to a towel with both hands if you can’t grab them. Straighten your back and arms as you take a deep breath, then exhale as you bend at your waist. As you bend forward, bring your arms up over your head as much as you.
Hold this position for at least ten seconds, then slowly return to the starting position. Don’t move too fast with this stretch; otherwise, you might feel lightheaded from being upside and standing too quickly.
Try These Easy Stretches Today
Get up and make sure to give these easy stretches a try! Remember to take them slowly, and never forget to switch sides when you’re done with a stretch.
Are these hard for you to do, or are you looking for more challenging stretches? Consider signing up for personal training! Reach out to us today to see how we can help you become more flexible and comfortable with your exercises.