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Warm up before you begin.
A warm-up routine prepares your body and mind
for vigorous exercise. It also provides insurance
against injury and soreness. Warm up with two to
five minutes of slow exercise, at minimal intensity.
Stretch after your warm-up.
A pliable, well-stretched muscle is less susceptible
to injury. Perform the recommended stretches on a
smooth, flat surface.
The correct form for several stretches is described
below (refer to the drawings at the right). Be sure to
move slowly as you stretch--never bounce.
1. Toe Touch Stretch--Sit with your knees bent
slightly and slowly bend forward from your hips.
Allow your back and shoulders to relax as you
reach toward your toes as far as possible. Hold for
15 to 30 seconds, then relax. Repeat 3 times.
Stretches: Hamstrings, back of knees, and back.
2. Calf/Achilles Stretch--With one leg in front of
the other, reach forward and place your hands
against a wall. Keep your back leg straight and
your back foot flat on the floor. Bend your front leg,
lean forward, and move your hips toward the wall.
Hold for 15 to 30 seconds, then relax. Repeat 3
times for each leg. To cause further stretching of
the achilles tendons, bend your back leg as well.
Stretches: Calves, achilles tendons, and ankles.
3. Hamstring Stretch--Sit with one leg extended.
Bring the sole of the opposite foot toward you and
rest it against the inner thigh of your extended leg.
Reach toward your toes as far as possible. Hold for
15 to 30 seconds, then relax. Repeat 3 times for
both legs. Stretches: Hamstrings, lower back, and
groin.
4. Inner Thigh Stretch--Sit with the soles of your
feet together and your knees outward. Pull your
feet toward your groin area as far as possible. Hold
for 15 to 30 seconds, then relax. Repeat 3 times.
Stretches: Quadriceps and hip muscles.
5. Quadriceps Stretch--With one hand against a
. wall for balance, reach back and grasp one foot
with your other hand. Bring your heel as close to
your buttocks as possible. Hold for 15 to 30
seconds, then relax. Repeat 3 times for each leg.
Stretches: Quadriceps and hip muscles.
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