As you age,maintaining and improving flexibilitybecomes increasingly important for healthy aging.
Fortunately, we’ve got you covered.
We spoke with certified personal trainers who share expert insights and tips to improve flexibility as you age.
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A key benefit of maintaining flexibility as you age is a better quality of life.
According to a2022 study, flexibility allows you tomove freely and without pain.
It can significantly improve your day-to-day activities, allowing you to stay active and independent as you grow older.
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Be patient and persistent.
Like any other health and fitness goal, consistency is vital when it comes to improving your flexibility.
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Stay hydrated.
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Hydration is crucial for maintaining flexibility, as it helps keep your muscles and connective tissues supple.
check that to drink plenty of water throughout the dayespecially before and after stretching.
“Drinking enough water helps to keep your joints lubricated and support your stretching journey.
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It’s vital for improving both movement and flexibility.”
Know your body.
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Monitor your progress.
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Include active stretching.
“Improving flexibility does not mean just static stretching,” Furr explains.
“It’s important to work a joint’s full range of motion to improve its flexibility.
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Examples of active stretching include leg swings or arm circles.”
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Don’t compare yourself to others.
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Comparing yourself to others can lead to frustration and discouragement, so stay focused on your journey.
Be proud of yourself each day and know that you are working toward your personal goals."
Try different types of stretching.
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Experiment with different stretching techniques to find what works best for you.
“Stretching is not a one-size-fits-all activity,” says Furr.
Each method offers unique benefits and can help enhance flexibility in different ways.
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Figure out what works best for you and keeps you engaged and motivated."
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Get outside your comfort zone.
To noticeably improve your flexibility, you must push yourself out of your comfort zone.
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That means allowing yourself to stretch wherever and whenever it’s needed.
“Stretching doesn’t have to be done in the gym.
Getting creative with where you stretch will help you squeeze it in at all parts of the day.
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Listen to your body.
Flexibility-boosting activities like yoga, Tai Chi, or stretching should feel good and relaxing, not painful.
If you experience any pain, back off and reassess your technique.
Invest in professional guidance.
“Assisted stretching is a great way to increase your range of motion safely,” states Murdock.
