Before you jump into your next intense WOD, it's important to take a few minutes to warm up and stretch. Not only will this help prevent injury, but it will also improve your performance and help you get the most out of your workout.
Here's a quick and effective 5 minute stretching routine that you can do before your next class. This routine includes a mix of static and dynamic stretches to get your body ready to move.
- Start by standing with your feet hip-width apart and your hands on your hips. Take a deep breath in and as you exhale, hinge at the hips and reach your hands towards the ground. Hold for 30 seconds to stretch your hamstrings.
- Next, step your right foot forward into a lunge position, with your left knee on the ground. Place your hands on your right thigh and push your hips forward to stretch your hip flexors. Hold for 30 seconds and switch sides.
- From the lunge position, lift your arms overhead and stretch up towards the ceiling. Hold for 30 seconds and then switch sides.
- For a dynamic stretch, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and your arms by your sides. Swing your arms forward and back, and then side to side, to stretch your shoulders and chest.
- Finally, stand with your feet hip-width apart and extend your arms in front of you at shoulder height. Rotate your wrists and circle your arms forward and backward to stretch your forearms and wrists.
That's it! This quick 5 minute stretching routine will help warm up your body and get you ready for your workout. Remember to listen to your body and only do stretches that feel comfortable for you.
