Why Stretching Is The Most Important Exercise You Can Do

When most people think of stretching, they think of that gentle thing you do for a minute or so before the 'real' workout... but did you know that stretching has been found to be an exercise by itself - and one that has far reaching effects?

Check out this list of stretching benefits - then go out and learn a few stretching techniques to get all the benefits for yourself!

• A good stretch can drastically cut down on injuries, sprains, strains, and pulls during workouts and during your every day life. The more flexible and stretched you are, the easier time your body has responding to challenges.
• Stretching releases all kinds of 'happy chemicals' that can make you feel relaxed, at peace, and clear-headed.
• Stretching lengthens muscle fibers leading to long, lean, and toned muscles.
• Stretching is great for the skin and can help tighten up areas where the skin is loose.
• Stretching gives your internal organs a massage and can help move blood, nutrients, and water to where it's needed most.
• A 3-5 minute gentle stretching session during a break at work can change the rest of your day, for the good, in ways that might shock you!

Here are a few places to learn some simple stretches that you can do anytime, anywhere!

http://www.fcs.uga.edu/fdn/washingtonwilkes/physicalactivity/6stretches.htm

http://www.sparkpeople.com/resource/fitness_articles.asp?id=1262

http://www.menshealth.com/mhlists/work_stretches/index.php