5 Steps to a More Flexible You

Flexibility is an important component of fitness. It allows us to have full range of motion in our joints and prevent injury. We tend to lose flexibility as we age but there are ways to maintain and even increase our flexibility over time.

1. Work simple stretches into your daily routine. Do hamstring and quad stretches before getting out of bed in the morning. Try triceps, upper back and chest stretches in the shower. Do spinal twists and ankle rotations while sitting at your desk at work. Even a few minutes makes a difference.

2. Do yoga. Try a class at your local gym or find a yoga studio near you. There are also several videos and DVD on the market and many public libraries have a large collection of fitness and yoga videos on loan. You can also find yoga programming on TV on channels like FitTV and some public broadcast stations. The average yoga class lasts 45 minutes to an hour and a half, but even a few minutes a day will keep your muscles supple.

3. Tone up with Pilates. Pilates is not only a great core exercise it also incorporates stretches and helps improve flexibility. You can find Pilates classes at health clubs, recreation centers and specialized studios. You can also find videos and DVDs for sale, or at your library, and special programming on TV.

4. Stretch as part of your workout. Whether lifting weights or doing aerobics, be sure to set aside at least five minutes, of your routine, for stretching. Stretching not only maintains muscle flexibility but prevents post exercise muscle stiffness.

5. Add stretching to your nightly routine. Stretching before bed not only helps maintain flexibility, it also relieves stiff muscles and puts you in a relaxed state. You’ll keep your muscles supple and sleep better.