Stretches to Boost Your Weightlifting Routine

Stretching is an important part of any weightlifting routine. It lengthens tendons, gives you a wider range of motion, loosens joints, and prevents injury. Here are some stretching basics to add to your workout routine.

Pre-workout Stretches

Pre-workout stretches are called dynamic stretches. Dynamic stretches are stretches where you are moving quite a bit. This warms up your muscles while stretching them. Warm muscles are less prone to injury and gain muscle faster.

For example, one dynamic stretch is doing windmills with your arms.

Twisting your trunk while swinging your arms from side to side is also a great dynamic stretch that warms up your arms and core.

Post-workout Stretches

Post-workout stretches are called static stretches. Static stretches are less active than dynamic stretches because after your workout your muscles are warm and can stretch better. This is the time to really stretch your muscles to the limit.

Work on trying to touch your toes. Touching your toes is a great static stretch that works out several different muscle groups. If you are not very flexible, reach towards your feet as far as you can, and reach a little more each day. If you are already flexible, try working on laying your hands flat on the floor, palms down.

The Swan Lift is another static stretch that works many different muscle groups. Lay flat on the floor, reach behind you, and grab your ankles. Lean your head and chest back. Hold this position for a few seconds until you feel the "burn," then release.

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