The Importance of Stretching Everyday

      I think everyone hears the same phrase "Stretch everyday", and maybe you are thinking I don't have time to stretch or not stretching one day will not effect me but it will. Stretching everyday will help to lengthen your muscles and help them to stay flexible. My dance teacher tells us that our muscles are like a hair tie, they start off tight, but over time they begin to stretch out and then stay stretched out. As dancers, that is what we want to do to our muscles. Stretching everyday will allow our muscles to stretch a little bit more and get a little bit more like that stretched out hair tie. Overstretching is also a great way to stretch out your muscles, but just make sure that you are warmed up and have done your splits before you try to overstretch them. 

*Disclaimer- Tap Shoes and Textbooks is not responsible for any injury that resolves from stretching or overstretching. Precautions should be used before overstretching. If a dance teacher, guardian, or doctor, has recommended not overstretching or resting from dance or this activity for any period of time please respect and ask permission before doing this. Overstretching with an injury may result in making the injury worse or even permanent. 

    Some people use the excuse of not knowing any stretches, but here are a few of my favorite.
                                    -child's pose
                                    -frog/open frog
                                    -butterfly
                                    -lunge
                                    -pigeon
                                    -splits/oversplits
                                    -middle lunge/squat ( wide second position)
                                    -wall stretch- lay on the floor with your bottom on the wall and open your                        legs into your split making sure that your butt stays and legs stay flat against the wall

               Another excuse people like to use is that they don't have time, here are some ways to                      incorporate stretching into your everyday life.
                       -stretch while you are waiting for something like food in your microwave or toaster
                       -make a playlist of how you want to stretch for and stretch the entire length of the                                 playlist. When the playlist is over then you are done stretching.
                       -stretch while you are doing your homework or reading, but don't get distracted
                       -stretch while you are watching t.v. or stretch on t.v. commercials


              The final excuse that I think people use is that they don't have the motivation to stretch, and to be honest there are some days where I just don't want to stretch. Those are the days that you need to the most. Stretching or strengthening on the days that you are tired or the days that you don't want to are the days that make you stronger. Here are some tips to motivate you!!
                -make a playlist of music to only listen to while you are stretching listen to mine here
                - look up inspiring quotes or pictures online, but be careful not do overdo it when you                        are stretching
                - if it is pretty outside, stretch outside so you can get some fresh air
                - if all else fails just remember that stretching that day will make you feel better and                               accomplished 

                                    Remember not to overdo it or stretch to the point of severe pain, but do                                   push yourself because if you don't push yourself no one else will. 
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                                                                                Hannah