Warm it Up, Stretch it Out

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I walk into the gym all the time and see people go straight into a rigorous workout.  I go to the park and see runners go straight into a 5 mile run.  Unless these folks stretched their legs on their dashboards in the car, they are missing something. The warm-up.  Ten minutes of prep can save your body years of distress.  During my half marathon training last year I was that 5 mile runner that didn't warm up well and my hamstrings put a damper on my fun.  I felt like that younger cousin who couldn't play hide and seek because I was too small.  In this case, too hurt.  Learn from my mistakes people. Take the time to warm up and stretch out your muscles before a work out.

EVEN MORE IMPORTANT is stretching AFTER your workout.  I go fitness classes all the time and the instructor does a three minute cool down at the end. Sometimes they don't do it at all.  I'm not on it.  I take my happy behind to ab area and stretch.  If your muscles are tight, you will never get the full benefits of your workout.  Also being a limber lady has its benefits!  You married women know what I'm talking about! You don't want to be the stiff chick thirty years from now that can't touch her toes!

Remember:

• Warm-up at least 10 minutes before a workout.  Get on the treadmill, elliptical or whatever will make you break sweat and warm up those muscles!
• Your workout doesn't end until after you stretch.  Hold each stretch for at least 15 seconds.  

These tips are very basic and might seem silly but I wouldn't have wrote this post if I didn't see a need.  I hope this reminder is helpful! 

Stay Fit!