Joint range of motion is important in preventing injury and making daily tasks, such as picking up the garbage or tying your shoes, much easier. Range of motion also decreases as we age, so stretching is something you don't want to skip.
There are some creative ways to incorporate stretching. When you are exercising with weights, stretch in between sets, particularly the muscle group you're working. After a workout your muscles are very warm and pliable. This is the best time to stretch for flexibility. Save at least 5 minutes at the end of a workout to stretch. This is when you want to hold each stretch for 15-30 seconds to give your muscles a chance to relax and extend.
Stretch while watching TV, even if you're sitting on a couch. This can be a good time to stretch the lower body. If you work behind a desk, there are many chair stretches you can do for both upper and lower body. If you have a few spare minutes during the day, this is an opportunity. The great thing about stretching, vs other exercise modalities, you don't have to save a block of time. You can stretch throughout the day and still reap the same benefits.
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