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Calf stretch
Regularly performing a calf stretch is one of the best ways for athletes and sports people to avoid injury to this overworked area. Whatever activity you perform, the chances are that calf stretches can help you perform it better.
From footballers to dancers, badminton players to swimmers, all require strength and flexibility in the lower leg.
To keep this area flexible, consider using these calf stretches on a regular basis. These should be done at the end of a workout, when the muscles are properly warmed up.
- Gastrocnemius stretch: - This is the large muscle at the top of the lower leg. Stand about a foot from a wall with your hands on the wall at shoulder-height. Slide one leg back about two feet while pushing into the wall. Keep your back leg straight and press your heel into the floor. Hold for 20 seconds then switch legs and repeat.
- Soleus Stretch - This is the smaller muscle that lies beneath the Achilles tendon. Start in the same position as before, but this time slide your leg back only about six inches. Rather than keeping this back leg straight, bend at the knee and press downwards. You should feel the stretch in the lower part of your leg, around the Achilles heel.
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