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Flexibility
There are three main parts to fitness - flexibility, strength, and cardiovascular endurance. Of the three, it is flexibility that is most often ignored. However, there are very good reasons that you should make if a part of your workout program.
Flexibility is reasonably easy to acquire, but at the same time, it's easy to lose. Just look at the way most elderly people move. Not only have they lost muscle tone, they've also lost flexibility.
Making this a regular part of your workouts will have several effects:-
You'll feel better: This is a very relaxing part of your workouts, and when performed at the end of a hard session will help you to relax and cool down.
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You'll recover quicker: Research has shown that stretching at the end of a workout helps you recover more quickly for the next session.
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You'll perform better: Regular stretching lengthens your muscles, allowing you to apply your strength and fitness through a greater range of motion - the result? You'll be better at your chosen activity.
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You'll get injured less: Stretching after every workout is a proven way to avoid many minor and major injuries.
So whether you add stretching to the end of your workouts, or take a regular class such as yoga or Pilates, paying attention to this vital area will be an investment worth making.
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