Stretching is important, especially as you age. Without regular stretching, your muscles will shorten and become tight, and it can cause you to lose muscle mass. Lack of stretching and flexibility can also result in injury, and it commonly causes aches and pains in joints and muscles.
Here are 4 easy stretches to try if you have tight hips:
Butterfly Stretch
Sitting on the ground, bend both legs at the knees turning the soles of the feet inward, and touching each other, mimicking the shape of butterfly wings. Push down slightly on your knees for a deeper stretch.
3 Legged Dog
Start in downward dog position with your feet shoulder-width apart, your hips high in the air, fingers facing forward, and your head hanging between your arms. Raise your right leg high into the air above you keeping your knee as straight as possible. Hold this pose for up to 30 seconds, return to downward dog, and repeat the move with your left leg.
Frog Stretch
Start with your hands, knees, and toes on the floor, with your back straight like a tabletop. Slowly widen your knees and rest your shins on the ground parallel to each other, while also outstretching your arms in front of you, resting on your forearms. Hold this pose, and repeat as needed.
Knee to Chest Stretch
Lay flat on your back with your legs extended and also flat on the ground. Bend your right knee and pull it tight to your chest with both hands while your left leg remains extended and flat on the ground. Also, make sure that your back remains flat. Hold this position for 10 seconds, slowly lower your right leg back into the flat position, and repeat this move with your left leg.
It is always a good idea to add exercise and movement into your daily routine, along with a healthy diet. Make sure you check with your doctor before starting any new exercise program or adding any new stretches into your routine. At LongevityMed, our number one priority is your health. It's what we do, every day, and our specialty. We want to help you on your journey to better health and longer life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
