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Part: Creating a Stretching Routine
1. Start out small. If you are a beginner in gymnastics, you need to build up your flexibility gradually over time. Begin in a way in which you feel most comfortable and slowly develop yourself one step at a time.
Try some gentle stretches, such as the side stretch. Stand with your feet together and lace your fingers together. Raise your arms over your head and focus on lengthening your torso as well as your arms and legs. Gently lean to one side, and hold for 10 seconds. Return to the starting position then repeat on the other side.
Stretch your legs by standing an arm's length away from a wall. Keep your arms straight and rest your hands on the wall, then bring one foot back, keeping it straight. Let your front knee bend and hold the stretch for 10 seconds. Return to the starting position then repeat with the opposite leg.
2.Remember to breathe. Sometimes people unknowingly hold their breath when stretching, but this is not a habit you want to create. Breathe deeply when you are stretching, and exhale on the more difficult movements. This will help you to concentrate, as well as get oxygen into your muscles.
3. Stretch all your major muscle groups. Aim to stretch your entire body each day rather than focusing on one particular area. Stretch your arms and upper body, your torso, back, and abdomen, as well as your lower body and legs.
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4.Identify your strengths and weak spots. You may already be able to move certain muscles effectively, yet can do hardly anything in another area or on the opposite side. Practice where you need it and maintain the areas in which you are already flexible.
5. Stretch every single day. There is no set limit of time or specific day to stretch. You can do it when you wake up, go to sleep, or simply during commercial breaks when you're watching television. Just be sure to stretch each day, or you risk losing flexibility.
6. Seek "professional" help. If you know a friend who is practically a master gymnast, ask for tips on how to stay motivated and get them to work with you daily until you achieve your goals.
In this section, you’ve learned the basics, but there are still Parts 2,3 and 4 to come, which cover flexibility.🫡
Artemus Vazhui