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Stretching our limbs
“I do some weights and I do a lot of stretching.”
- Mike Ditka
Stretching is one of those exercises that, unless you are an athlete, you might not pay too much attention to. However, keeping our bodies loose and limber by stretching is probably one of the most beneficial ways to maintain our physical health and prevent injuries. Stretching can also help us with our mental health by reducing stress and anxiety. There are so many benefits to the simple routine of stretching.
I first learned about the importance of stretching when I was on the track team in high school. As a high jumper, I learned how loosening up my muscles and limbs would prevent me from being too tight or pulling something while approaching or jumping over the crossbar. Our head coach was adamant about everyone stretching, for at least 15 minutes before every practice. The entire team, including the “weight men” who competed in the shot put and discus, was required to stretch. It kept me injury-free throughout high school and helped me obtain All-State honors in the high jump. I was quite limber in my teens!
Fast forward 25+ years and I am now remembering and understanding how important it is to stretch, especially for non-athletes and adults who are not very active in their daily lives. I have mentioned how I recently returned to a regular yoga practice to keep…
