Definition of Flexibility and Why Stretching is Important

Definition of flexibility is a person's ability to move their joints through a full range of motion. Muscle flexibility allows for more movement around the joints. This is achieved with a basic stretching workout.



Stretching after your workout is a great way to increase flexibility and keep your body protected from injury. Your muscles are warm and receptive then to being stretched and you'll reduce muscle cramps and aches.

Stretching allows you to keep your body flexible especially because most of us suffer from poor posture. It's sometimes difficult to maintain it throughout the day and consequently our posture often declines by the end of the day as we become tired.

Whenever you're jogging maintain correct posture by following the correct running form which will help alleviate pain in your upper back and shoulder area. Take the time to stretch as needed throughout the day because you'll feel less tense and more relaxed.

Why Stretching Is Good For You?

• You'll reduce injury.
• You'll experience better jogging performance.
• You'll reduce lower back pain.
• You'll reduce cramps and muscle aches.
• You'll lower your blood pressure.
• You'll get more nutrients and blood to your muscles making them stronger.
• You'll reduce stress and feel more relaxed.
• You'll enjoy exercise more!

How to Stretch

1. Always stretch after your workout when your muscles are warm and receptive. This is an essential principle of the definition of flexibility because your muscles need a good stretch after aerobic activity. This will greatly reduce the aches and cramping that lactic acid build up in the muscles cause.

   This is also a terrific way to do your cool down portion of your exercise routine. It's best to stretch after your warm up and not before since stretching cold muscles can cause injury.

2. When doing static stretches, don't bounce. Hold a comfortable position until you feel a gentle pull on your muscle. It should feel good and not hurt. Don't bounce since you may end up pulling the muscle you were trying to stretch.

3. Ideally you should try to hold each stretch for 15-30 seconds so you can enjoy some long-term flexibility benefits.

4. Try stretching between strength training sets and perform light stretches throughout the day to deal with tight shoulders, neck and lower back.

5. When you stretch after jogging, try to hit all the muscles you used paying special attention to any tight areas.

Stretching is a key component to the definition of flexibility and should be practiced regularly as part of your overall wellness plan.


Photo courtesy Khor Hui Min.

Definition of Flexibility to Jogging101