Stretch It: Shoulder and Neck Stretching Backbend


Updated 11/23/10 2:35 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 0 comments

How to Stretch Your Neck and Shoulders

This stretch may look familiar if you've taken a yoga class. It's the prep pose you learn before doing Wheel pose. Also called Half Wheel, this stretch will increase flexibility in your spine and also stretch out your shoulders and the back of your neck. Because it doesn't require a lot of energy, it has both a calming and energetic effect on the body and mind. Learn the finer details of this Read more

Stretch It: Relaxing Chest and Shoulder Stretch


Updated 08/19/10 9:05 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 0 comments

Chest and Shoulder Stretch

This woman may look like she's relaxing by the lake, soaking in the warm sun, but she's actually getting an amazing stretch in her chest, shoulders, and abs. This is the perfect stretch to do if you've been sitting hunched over a computer or steering wheel all day. It also feels great the day after doing tons of push-ups. For details on how to do this stretch, read more Read more

Strike a Yoga Pose: Bound Half Wheel


Updated 08/12/10 8:16 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 0 comments

Increase Flexibility in Your Spine With Bound Half Wheel Pose

If you want to open your heart, both figuratively and literally, backbends are the way to go. There's no need to spring yourself into a challenging variation like Full Wheel when you can do a much more gentle variation like this one. Not only does it increase flexibility in your spine, but holding on to your ankles also allows you to deeply stretch your chest, shoulders, and the back of your Read more

Stiff Neck RX: Stretch Relief


Updated 10/14/11 11:50 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 0 comments

Stretches For a Sore Neck 2010-06-09 10:00:10

We have all done it. Slept in a funky position only to awaken with a stiff neck. A crick in the neck is annoyingly awkward and painful to boot. After a long, hot shower, to loosen the muscles, try a few of these stretches for a little relief. Source: Thinkstock Read more

Snow Shovel Stretch: Shoulders and Torso


Updated 02/19/10 2:05 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 0 comments

Stretches to Relieve Shoulder Pain From Shoveling Snow

Some areas of the US are getting dumped on by snow. That translates to lots of shoveling, which definitely helps burn calories and tones your muscles but can leave you with aches and pains too. I've already shown you how to stretch your lower back and hamstrings using a shovel, so here are some stretches to target your shoulders, upper back, front abs, and the sides of your torso. Here's how to Read more

Stretch It: Forward Bend Against a Wall


Updated 01/30/10 3:34 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 3 comments

How to Stretch Your Hamstrings and Lower Back 2010-01-29 09:15:44

Take time out of your busy day and do this relaxing forward bend. All you need is a wall and a few minutes, and you'll feel an amazing stretch for your tight hamstrings and lower back. To learn how to get into this stretch, read more Read more

Stretch It: Chest and Shoulder Stretch With a Band


Updated 01/15/10 8:00 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 0 comments

How to Stretch the Chest and Shoulders

After doing upper body strengthening exercises, it feels so good to stretch out your chest and shoulders. Here's a simple stretch you can do using a resistance band, a yoga strap, or even a belt. Definitely use a band if you have one since the flexible material will allow you to get an even deeper stretch. Music: "Adam and Eve" by Ani Read more

Work It Girl: Reverse Arch Stretch


Updated 11/05/09 3:51 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 3 comments

How to Stretch at Work

Constantly hovering over your keyboard, with your shoulders hunched over not only contributes to terrible posture, but can be a real pain in the neck and back. I know this stretch looks a little provocative and is reminiscent of FlashDance, but it is the antidote to a day of blogging. Sit on the edge of your chair. Reach your hands behind you and hold on to the back of the chair. Inhale and Read more

Stretch It: Shoulder Releasing Spinal Twist


Updated 10/09/09 10:27 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 1 comment

How to Stretch Your Shoulders and Lower Back

Tense shoulders are a symptom of stress and working at a computer all day, so take a break, get on the floor, and give this relaxing stretch a try. It's a variation of the chest opening spinal twist, and it'll not only relieve tension in your shoulders, but you'll also get a nice stretch in your lower back. To learn how to get into this pretzel of a stretch, read more Read more