Whether you’re gearing up for the holidays, trying to shake off that mid-week stiffness, or just looking for a simple way to feel better about your body - stretching might be the secret weapon you’ve been overlooking.
Friend of the show Jody Trierweiler joined “Live in the D” and shared the five parameters of physical fitness. She listed body composition, muscular strength, muscular endurance, cardiovascular fitness, and one that is often neglected, flexibility.
Jody shared how flexibility plays a big role in overall health. She explained one of the most important areas to stretch are your hamstrings as they correlate directly to lower-back health.
Jody was joined by “Live in the D” Intern Audrey Ash to demonstrate some simple hamstring stretches you can do at home.
Jody advised viewers to be aware of improper form. While you might feel some tension while stretching, you shouldn’t be feeling pain. It is recommended you stretch about 15% past your normal range of motion and slowly work yourself further. Try to hold your stretches for 30 to 60 seconds and keep in mind that stretching is safer when your body is warm.
To watch the full segment, click on the video above.