WebMD: Better Information. Better Health.
  • Bookmark This Page
  • Site Map
  • Sign up for WebMD Newsletters
Font Size
A
A
A

Fitness - Flexibility

Flexibility is the ability to move joints and muscles through their full range of motion. As you become more flexible, you will find it easier to reach things on high shelves, to look under a bed, or perhaps to tie your shoes. You will also have a better sense of balance and coordination.

To stay flexible, stretch all your major groups of muscles. These include the muscles of your arms, back, hips, front and back of your thighs, and calves. Try to stretch for 10 to 12 minutes a day, after a brief warm-up. Do some stretches first thing in the morning, take a stretch break instead of a coffee break, or stretch in the office for a few minutes. Or participate in activities that include stretching, such as dance, martial arts (aikido or karate), tai chi, or yoga.

Stretching also can be done as part of strength training and aerobic exercise. When you exercise, you repeatedly shorten your muscles. To counter this effect, you need to stretch slowly and regularly, which makes you more flexible. Combining it with other forms of fitness is an ideal way to practice flexibility fitness.

When getting started with flexibility and stretching, begin slowly and increase your efforts gradually. You can measure your progress with flexibility by noticing how much farther you can do each stretch. Can you go farther with each stretch than you could when you started? If so, your flexibility is improving.

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: September 01, 2006
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
Next Article:
webMD Video

click to expand/contract  Exercise At Your Desk: Overview

48x48_exercise_at_your_desk.jpg

Do you find yourself stuck at your desk all day? Stiff necks, sore backs, and blossoming waistlines are often the result, until now.

Watch Video

click to expand/contract  Gym Smarts: Lower Body (Hamstring Curls)

click to expand/contract  Awesome Abs

click to expand/contract  Cardio or Weights?

click to expand/contract  Fitness After Injury

What's your favorite type of workout?


Most Popular Stories