5 Easy Stretches That Busy Brooklynites Can Do In 8 Minutes

Let's just be honest with ourselves. How many of us actually stretch the core parts of our body everyday? What about every other day?

Unless you're a fitness guru - finding the time, space and energy to stretch often feels like an extra chore that we put on the back burning - kind of like laundry day : )

But the truth of the matter is - stretching is extremely important! Stretching keeps the muscles flexible, strong, and healthy, and that flexibility is key to maintaining a range of motion in our joints. Even the simple one.

So because stretching is so important, we wanted to share 5 daily simple stretches that can be done virtually anywhere.

WALL CALF STRETCH

Stand a little less than arm's distance from the way. Step your left leg forward and your right leg back, keeping your feet parallel. Bend your left knee and press through your right heel. Hold for 20-30 seconds and switch legs.

QUADRICEPS STRETCH:

Pull the foot of the injured leg towards your buttock until you can feel a gentle stretch on the front of the thigh. To increase the stretch on the front of the thigh. To increase the stretch, tilt your hips backwards. Hold for 20-30 seconds and repeat 3 times.

CROSS BODY SHOULDER STRETCH

Stand with your feet about shoulder width apart and simply bring one of your arms across your body at about chest-level. Lock that arm in place and really stretching it by using your other arm to do so. Hold for a 20 second count and repeat on the opposite arm.

CHILDS POSE

This is a fantastic yoga pose that stretches the hips, thighs and legs. Begin on your hands and knees. Spread your knees wide apart while keeping your big toes touching. Sit up straight and lengthen your spine. Keep your arms long and extended, palms facing down. Hold pose taking deep breaths for 30 seconds.

STANDING OBLIQUE STRETCH

Stand with your feet shoulder width apart. Place your right hand on your hip and raise your left arm. Incline your torso to the right until you feel a stretch in the obliques. Hold the stretch for 20-30 seconds and then repeat on the other side.

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Stretching Exercises That May Replace a Massage Session

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Heal Your Lower Back Pain With These 5 Yoga Poses