Six reasons why it’s important to stretch before you burn

Stretching before you burn may be more important than you think.

Developing your core strength will help your performance in running, cycling and at the gym. When I was in my 20s stretching before or after exercise was rarely on my agenda, it took too much time, I couldn’t be bothered. Now in my 40s, stretching has become a necessity as well as enjoying the ‘time out’ that yoga gives me.

That’s why we created a collection for stretch as well as a collection for burn, they are equally important to us.

So, here are our six reasons as to why you should ensure that you are stretching before you start burning off the calories.

Strength

Yoga strengthens both the key supporting muscles used in running and the underused muscles. By strengthening your core, quads, hamstrings and hip flexors you will strengthen your aerobic ability and reduce your risk of injury.

Flexibility

Flexibility is the ability to move with freedom and ease. Yoga poses and stretching positions held for long periods of time will create elasticity and loosen up the muscles, joints, ligaments and connective tissues that will ultimately help you to exercise with more freedom.

Breathing

Through the practice of yoga, you will practice how to breathe deeply, open your lungs and control your breathing. We learn that slower breathing is more relaxing, faster breathing is more energising. Having control of our breathing will help with aerobic exercise increasing our oxygen intake and helping to reduce performance anxiety.

Posture

Posture is important all the time whether we’re exercising or not. Through the practice of yoga, you will learn how to elongate your spine – stand taller and stronger. The foundation for efficient movement in running is posture.

Back health

For many runners back pain is a common concern. From constant impact through the legs to the back it causes strain. Yoga twists and gentle cat/cow stretches mobilise the back to help prevent any problems, for instance in the spinal discs.

Stress and mental strength

Yoga helps to control emotions, deep breathing to keep you calm and composed. Relaxation and meditation techniques help to clear the mind of worry, encouraging a better night sleep and a positive mindset. And a positive mindset leads to a positive performance and achievement of your goals.

 

What better motivation do you need to start stretching than treating yourself to our new sustainable yoga wear Made from ECONYL recycled fabric you’re playing your part for the planet by putting to good use old fishing nets and other waste materials.