5 tips to improve flexibility

1)        Stretch correctly. Stretching is one of the most important factors in increasing flexibility and improving overall mobility. However, if you over stretch or stretch in an incorrect position, this can in fact limit your mobility and create further tension, which will limit your progress. Regular 30-60 second bursts of slow, calm stretching is wonderfully beneficial, but any more than that can create rigidness in your movements, as your muscles are being stretched beyond their capacity.

2)        Breathing! Breathing may sound like an obvious task, but deep, slow breaths help engage your mind and body whilst moving. Not only does this create a wonderful sense of calm, but it also helps relax your whole body, allowing you to stretch and move to your full capacity without injuring yourself.

3)        Massage your muscles! Tightness in muscles can be a common side effect of overworking yourself in exercise and then not cooling down properly. As well as helping to release tension, muscle massage allows for your muscles to repair fully. It also helps ease any aches or pains by signalling your brain to release feel good hormones such as dopamine, serotonin and endorphins. A win win!

4)        Incorporate heat. Whether it be a hot water bottle or a warm soak in the bath, using heat after exercise is a brilliant way to let your body recover after movement. Heat not only helps your muscles to relax, but improves circulation, allowing for more effective tissue repair.

5)        Work on your posture. With many of us primarily working in desk jobs, poor posture is a common hindrance in flexibility and mobility. Whether it involves moving your desk to a higher position, or adding laptop support to elevate your screen’s position, making sure that your body is properly supported whilst sitting is a key factor in improving your overall flexibility. Also consider walking around the office or changing positions, in order to give your body a break from the same posture.