A Daily 5-Minute Stretching Routine That Everyone Needs
Of course! Stretching for five minutes every day can do amazing things for your health, flexibility, and balance. Here's an easy workout that works all the major muscle groups:
Sit or stand tall. Slowly tilt your head right, bringing your right ear to your shoulder. Hold for 30 seconds, feeling the left neck stretch. Flip and repeat.
1. Eck Stretch (30 seconds/side)
Reach your right arm across your chest.
Use your left hand to gently press your right arm to your chest.
Hold for 30 seconds, feeling right shoulder extend.
Left arm, repeat.
2. Shoulder stretch (30 seconds per side)
Feet shoulder-width apart, sit or stand.
Hold your hands in front of you and circle your upper back, pushing your hands away.
Hold for 30 seconds to extend shoulder blades.
3. Upper Back Stretch (30 Seconds)
Place your feet hip-width apart.
Reach toward your toes or shins with a slow hip bend.
Hold your knees slightly bent if needed.
Hold for 30 seconds, feeling hamstring and lower back stretch.
4. Fold forward (30 seconds)
Reach for your right ankle while standing tall.
Gently bring your heel toward your glutes, stretching your front thigh.
Switch to left leg after 30 seconds.
5. Quad stretch (30 seconds/side)
Find a solid wall or object to support yourself.
Take a step back and plant your right heel.
Straighten your right leg and lean forward until your right calf stretches.
Switch to left leg after 30 seconds.