Training tips with Michelle
Fitness Instructor/Personal trainer/ Domestic Engineer : )

Questions for Michelle? eMail her and we will post your questions here next month!

THE PRIMARY BENEFITS OF STRETCHING
• Increased production of synovial fluid & joint lubricants
• Improved postural alignment
• Improved motor patterns – i.e. riding, gait or throwing mechanics
• Greater ease in performing daily activities (better quality of life)
• Improved performance (force production is increased)
• Facilitation of removal of metabolic waste products (lymphatic drainage) which will enhance recovery.
• Decreased risk of injuries associated with muscular imbalance. One tight muscle may affect an entire network of muscles. You can experience limitations and compensations in movement.

Here’s an example (from experience!!)
- My left hip wasn’t moving properly within its’ range of motion (Due to tightness)
- Caused my Psoas (1 of the muscles that flexes the hip) to stop contracting properly
- Caused my Rectus Femoris (1 of the Quadriceps muscles) to work overtime
- My Quads became very tight which put pressure on my knee
- This left me with knee pain!

ALL of this could have been avoided if I took my own advice and stretched properly after each workout! ?

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