Why Stretching is Great For Older Adults in Bergen County

The Benefits of Stretching for Older Adults

Over the years, we develop habitual ways of using our muscles to move and position ourselves. Poor posture and a lack of flexibility may be the result of a legitimate medical problem or may be the result of limited stretching and improper body alignment. When muscles get tight and stay tight, they cease to be elastic and they restrict movement.

Stretching: The Best Way to Maintain Flexibility

Stretching is the best way to maintain muscle and joint flexibility. When you stretch regularly, you will also reduce general muscle tension. A prime benefit of stretching is that it increases the distance your limbs can travel before injury occurs to the muscles and tendons.

Tips for Stretching Efficiently

• Stretch your muscles back to their resting length after each exercise.
• Stretch every third day for five to ten minutes to keep your muscles supple.
• Static stretching gradually lengthens a resting muscle.

Stretching: A Reward for Your Body

Like aerobic endurance and muscle strength, flexibility provides anti-aging benefits that may keep the ‘ol chassis running like new. Look forward to the cool down as a reward for a job well done. Stretching should be peaceful, both physically and mentally. Quiet your mind, breathe deeply, and r-e-l-a-x.

By Margaret Richard
http://seniorliving.about.com/od/exercisefitnes1/a/?once=true&

Home Care Bergen County, New Jersey – At Home Companions in Hackensack. 201-525-0607 or email homecompanions@optonline.net. We serve Ridgewood, Hackensack, Fair Lawn, Teaneck and Englewood and Englewood Cliffs in Bergen County & Clifton, Nutley in Essex County.