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Stretch It
Stretch It: Twisting Hip Flexor Stretch
A common complaint among runners and cyclists is tight hip flexors, the area in front of the hips above the quads. Here's one of my favorite ways to lengthen that area, while also getting a subtle spinal twist — two great stretches in one!
To learn how to get into this stretch, read more
Stretch It: Shin and Ankle Stretch
After long bike rides, my shins and the tops of my feet are often tight. All that flexing of my ankle and pulling up on the pedals to maximize my stroke takes its toll on this part of my body. Once I slip off my stiff cycling shoes, this is the first stretch I do.
Stretch Your Stretching Knowledge
Stretching is one of the three essential elements of fitness, along with strength training and cardio. But many of us neglect the flexibility portion of our workouts. But do you know better?
Work It Girl: Reverse Arch Stretch
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.
Stretch It: Towel Foot Stretch
If you think about it, your feet take a lot of beating, from pounding the ground when running, to walking all over the city, to wearing high heels. They carry the weight of our entire bodies, so take time to give them some TLC. This stretch will target the muscle in the soles of your feet, but will also stretch your calves.
Stretch It: Easy Back Stretch
One thing I have learned from my years as a Pilates instructor is most folks don't twist enough. The spine likes to rotate. Here is a simple back stretch that feels great after running.
Stretch It: Lying Ab Stretch
After an intense core strengthening session with your trainer, your abs are so sensitive, it can even hurt to laugh. So here's a relaxing stretch you can do to lengthen your abdominal muscles, and relieve tension in your middle.
For instructions on how to do this stretch, read more
You Asked: Stretch For Sciatica
Hey Fit,
I've been having issues with my sciatic nerve lately, I was wondering if you could post some stretches and/or yoga poses that would help with sciatica? Thanks!
— Hitting a Nerve
I feel your pain.
Stretch It: Shoulder Releasing Spinal Twist
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
Stretch It: Grounded Wide Squat
When my lower back is sore from running or sitting all day, a Low Squat is just what I need to stretch that area and get relief. Here's a deeper variation that will also open your hips.
For instructions on how to do this stretch read more
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