Why should you include flexibility in your workout plans

Exercise is a key part of a healthy lifestyle. Regular physical activity has been linked to a longer lifespan, better physical and mental health, and a lower risk of chronic disease.

There are lots of different kinds of exercise that you can do to boost your health, and it’s important to find a form that you love. Once you’ve established your preferred form of exercise, you can create a workout plan.

As great as it is to have a regular workout routine for muscle growth, strength gains, and weight maintenance, it’s also important to include flexibility (stretching)  in your schedule. In this article, we’re going to cover the benefits of adding flexibility to your workout routine.

The importance of  flexibility

Flexibility is a form of training that involves taking your muscles to the end of their ranges to increase your range of motion. It plays a key role in any workout program, but why is this the case?

Here are some of the reasons why flexibility training is important.

Better athletic performance

Flexibility helps you to perform better in the gym and on the sports field. It enables your muscles to work more effectively and improves your joints’ range of motion. It will also help you in your day to day physical activities, from chores around your home to lifting and carrying items at the grocery store.

Reduced injury risk

Tight muscles are more likely to get pulled and torn when you’re pushing yourself during exercise (or even when you’re simply going about your day-to-day life). Working on your flexibility by including dynamic stretching before you exercise can help minimize your risk of injury.

Lower pain

Flexibility exercises help with blood flow to your muscles and this can potentially help reduce post-exercise stiffness and soreness.

A regular flexibility routine can also help reduce tension in your body and support stress reduction, both of which could increase feelings of tightness and discomfort.