Getting out and about is a lot of fun during the summer. You have the warmth and the sun as your companion, and it can help you feel invigorated to push yourself further than normal. If you plan on going out to be active this summer, make sure you stretch your muscles first do you don’t hurt yourself. Here are some of the best summer stretches to make part of your routine.
Squatting Like a Sumo
Sumo squats work most of your lower body at the same time. You put your feet apart, about as far as your shoulders, and you drop down until your knees are at about a 90-degree angle. Hold the stretch and slowly stand back up.
Stretch Those Hammies
Your hamstrings are responsible for a lot of stability in your body. Put one foot forward and rock your bottom outward while keeping the leg straight that is in front. Lean over at the waist until you feel the stretch up the back of your leg.
Stretch Hamstrings Over a Chair
For this stretch, put your feet together and face them forward. Lean over at the waist until you are parallel to the floor, holding the chair for stability. Keep your legs straight and don’t curve your back so that all of the stretch goes through your hamstrings.
Shoulder Stretches
Your back and shoulders need to be stretched, especially if you slouch. To do this stretch, stand against a wall with your arms out at the height of your shoulders. Raise each arm up independently without moving any of your body that is against the wall. Reach for the sky, then lower your arm back down in a controlled manner. Repeat this about ten times.
Stretching Your Leg Band
There is a thick band of tissue that goes from your hip directly down to your shin, which helps keep your knee strong when you run or walk. Lay down on your side and pull your heel up towards your bottom. Slowly lower your knee towards the floor and release, then do the other side.
Stretching Your Groin
Your groin is one of the areas often forgotten about during stretches, but when it hurts because it got pulled, it is hard to forget the pain. Sit on your bottom and put your feet together in front of you. Pull your feet back towards you while keeping your legs parallel to the ground.
Stretch Your Glutes
Your glutes get sore after most exercises, so stretching them can help with that pain. While on the floor, have one leg forward with your foot beneath your bottom. The other leg should be straight out behind you. Hold this pose for 20 seconds and repeat with your other leg.
Side Lunges
Anyone that is going to use their lower body needs to stretch out the thighs and glutes, and side lunges do just that. Spread your feet out, and lower your body down over each foot, not bending your knee beyond 90 degrees at any point during the stretch. Remember to do both sides!
Don’t try these if you are unfamiliar with the movement. Watch a couple of videos and never stretch hard the first time. Often if you do it slow your body can tell you if you are doing it wrong. We’d love to show you some stretches in person, contact us for a consultation!
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