What Are the Benefits of Daily Stretching?
Stretching is a gentle movement that can help tone different areas of the body when done regularly in repetitions. Some exercise disciplines such as Pilates and yoga feature many different stretches that tone as well as relax the body. The benefits of daily stretching can include a more limber, less injury-prone body, lower stress levels, better muscle tone and less overall pain. When people don’t move their muscles enough, aches and pains often result — especially with increased age. Doing daily stretching exercises usually has the result of keeping the muscles working more smoothly; this can greatly reduce muscle ache and joint pain. While ice, heat and massage may all minimize muscle ache, regular stretching can prevent muscles from “freezing up” or cramping so the extra treatments may not be necessary.