The concept of training to be more flexible has gotten a lot more attention over recent years, folks, and for many good reasons. When you can move your joints further, you’ll be able to move them with more control and in a more accurate way. This can have a great impact on the rest of your workouts, helping you to get the most out of your routines and reducing your risk of injury.
If you’re not training for flexibility yet, here are four things you are missing out on!
A better range of motion
With more flexibility comes a greater range of motion, and this will allow you to exercise more and do your exercises the right way. Because of this, you’ll get more out of each workout. For example, when you improve the range of motion in your knees and hips, you’ll be able to go deeper when you sink in a squat, and you’ll gain more from each squat in your routine.
A more balanced body
Strength training and aerobic workouts often contract and shorten the main group or groups of muscles you’re working when you exercise. But if you simply contract those muscles and don’t lengthen them again, you can end up with body imbalances that lead to discomfort and pain. This has the added bonus of helping you to avoid any injury, which will allow you to reach training goals faster.
An increased handle on daily performance
When you’re more flexible, you’ll be able to perform the simple tasks of everyday life more easily. Bending down to pick something up or tie your shoelaces is always easier when you are more flexible. The same applies to walking up stairs, standing up after sitting on the couch, and a whole host of other everyday movements. The benefits you gain from being more flexible certainly are not limited to the gym!
A greater sense of well-being
Many people experience a stronger sense of well-being when they improve their flexibility, and this applies to the body and the mind. When you’re more flexible and less tense, you’re simply able to relax more, which is better for your mental and physical health.
If you’re not doing flexibility training yet, you’re missing out on a load of benefits. You can find training guides and examples online, or you can speak to a personal trainer at your local gym for guidance on a new routine.
