Overview

Performing stretching exercises on a regular basis is crucial to maintain a healthy musculoskeletal system and reduce your risk of getting injured.

Researchers repeatedly found that stretching is a useful tool for injury prevention and performance optimization.

Additionally, these exercises will help you become more flexible by increasing your joints’ range of motion, which allows you to do complex movements that would’ve been impossible without stretching.

In this article, we will discuss the top stretching exercises for active adults.

Top stretching exercises for active adults

Before we start listing the stretching routines, keep in mind that there is no “one best” exercise to perform. It all depends on your flexibility and endurance.

In other words, when you first start to stretch, you probably won’t be able to perform complex movements; however, this changes with time as the articulations become more flexible.

With that being said, we chose the exercises that cover your upper and lower body, as well as the vast majority of the joints.

Triceps’ Stretch

The triceps muscles are susceptible to many injuries, hence the need to target them with every stretching routine.

Here’s how to perform this stretch:

1. Stand up with your feet shoulder-width apart.
2. Lift the right arm above your head, bend your elbow, and reach for your upper back.
3. Using the left arm, push the right arm further down.
4. Repeat this process for the opposite side.

Shoulder Stretch

1. Start in a standing position.
2. Put your right arm across your chest while pointing to the left side.
3. Hook the left arm underneath the right arm.
4. Repeat this process for the opposite side.

Quad Stretch

This one is straightforward:

1. Stand up with your feet shoulder-width apart.
2. Bend your right leg behind you and pull it up using your right hand.
3. Repeat for the left leg.

Hip Flexor Stretch

This exercise targets the active contraction of the hip flexors to increase their strength.

1. Lie down on your back with your toes facing the ceiling.
2. Bring your right knee to your chest, and hold it with both hands for 30-60 seconds.
3. Release your knee and repeat this exercise for your left side.

Glute Stretch

1. Lie down on your back and bend both knees.
2. Lift the right ankle and rest it on the left knee.
3. Place both hands behind the left thigh and pull it towards your chest.
4. Repeat this exercise for the opposite side.

Takeaway message

Stretching is an essential part of every workout routine and should be given top priority before performing any exercise. These movements help prepare the muscles and joints for the upcoming physiological stress, which reduces the risk of muscle strains, joint sprains, and connective tissue tears.

Hopefully, the stretching routines cited in this article will help you begin your fitness journey without the fear of getting injured.

 

Here’s to your health!

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Dr. Kevin Crawford

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Disclaimer:  This information is provided as an educational service only, and is not intended as a substitute for medical advice.  Anyone seeking specific medical advice or assistance should consult his or her doctor or orthopedic surgeon.