Exercise: Flexibility Training

Flexibility training: I have to admit, this is my least favorite and an area of exercise I am really BAD at, however, it is very important!

• Purpose: Enhances your joints’ ability to move through a full range of motion. Keeping your muscles flexible will help improve physical performance and posture and reduce the risk of injury, low back pain, and muscle soreness; increase the flow of blood and nutrients to tissues; and help improve muscle coordination. It not only will make you feel better but function better.
• Types of activity:

1. Stretching exercises (either alone or within a class setting)
2. Consider: A yoga or Pilates class
3. You can also use your Swiss Ball to do a variety of flexibility exercises
   
4. The Foam Roller is great for spine mobilization and others areas of the body
   
5. Last but not least, certain sports programs tailored to enjoy as a hobby, incorporate flexibility as part of their conditioning like Karate, jogging, biking, etc.
   

• Frequency: 3 to 5 times per week (perhaps after an exercise program)
• Duration: Approximately 10 to 20 minutes (or more, if you have the time)
• Intensity: To the point of tightness, not pain...and make sure your muscles are warm prior to your flexibility training regimen
  

Here is a website that has some photos of 8 stretches to get you started! Sports Fitness Advisor
and more about flexibility training.
This is Blog #3 of SIX BLOGS to cover the Diva 6 Components to an Effective Exercise Program: Flexibility Training

• Cardiovascular conditioning
• Strength and endurance training
• Flexibility training
• Core and balance training
• Corrective exercises
• Functional training

Click her to see:

1. Cardiovascular Conditioning
2. Strength and Endurance Training

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