3 Tips to Improve Your Flexibility
Physical Flexibility is an essential part of feeling healthy both in mind and body. It allows us to move more freely, prevent injuries, and it enhances our positive mindset. While some people seem naturally flexible, the truth is that anyone can improve their flexibility with consistent practice and the right approach. For some people it just takes longer than others.
I started yoga 11 years ago and although I saw improvement in my flexibility it was taking me AGES to see a difference in my yoga poses. I was friends with some yogis on Instagram and the compare game set in. I could see them improving so fast and my progress wasn’t as noticeable as I wanted.
So I did ALOT of research, even did my yoga teacher training and started focusing on how tighter bodies can loosen up. Within just a few months my flexibility started increasing rapidly.
In this beginner’s guide, we’ll explore the three effective things I did to help me majorly improve my flexibility. Just remember, flexibility is a journey, and every body is different BUT this is coming form someone who has always been naturally inflexible and who could barely touch my shins in my 20’s. I was so stiff! So Let’s Stretch…
1. Practice Daily
Practice Daily, No Matter How Short: One of the most critical factors in improving flexibility is consistency. Make it a habit to practice daily, even if you only have a few minutes to spare. Flexibility gains come from gradually elongating muscles and increasing their range of motion. Regular practice helps condition your muscles, making them more adaptable to stretching over time. Aim for at least five minutes of stretching each day, and gradually increase the duration as you become more comfortable. But Don’t push it! If 5 minutes is all you have, 5 minutes is GREAT!
2. Focus on the right Body Parts
Different people have varying flexibility needs, depending on their goals and activities. It’s essential to identify the body parts you want to improve flexibility in and focus on stretching those areas. For example, if you want to enhance your hamstring flexibility, incorporate specific stretches like standing toe touches or seated forward bends. If you aim to improve your shoulder mobility, include exercises such as shoulder circles or wall stretches. By targeting specific areas, you can maximize the effectiveness of your flexibility training.
ps. Working on your splits? Try this one daily to see major improvement! – https://youtu.be/iP862_Gr0E8
3. Hold & Breathe!
When stretching, it’s important to hold each position for an adequate amount of time to allow your muscles to relax and elongate. Aim to hold each stretch for around 30 seconds or my favourite 10 long deep breathes. This duration provides enough time for your body to adapt and adjust to the stretch, promoting increased flexibility over time. As you hold the stretch, focus on your breathing. Take slow, deep breaths, inhaling deeply through your nose and exhaling fully. Deep breathing promotes relaxation and helps release tension in your muscles, allowing for a deeper stretch.
Improving flexibility is a gradual process that requires consistency, targeted efforts, and mindful practices. By following these three tips—practicing daily, focusing on the right body parts, and holding stretches while breathing deeply—you can make significant strides in enhancing your flexibility. Remember, flexibility training should always be done in a safe and controlled manner. Never force yourself into a stretch or push beyond your limits. Stay patient, be consistent, and enjoy the journey as you unlock your body’s flexibility potential. With time and dedication, you’ll be amazed at the progress you can achieve. So, start today and embrace the path to a more flexible and agile you!
If you are looking to improve your forward fold flexibility and get closer to your toes then sign up to my free get closer to your toes challenge, with classes just 10 minutes long. You will see a major difference – Click here to sign up or click the button below.