It’s easy to rationalize not stretching by claiming that it’s not important or it has nothing to do with health and fitness. While it’s true that stretching alone will not do much to shrink your thighs or get rid of “love handles,” as part of a regular walking regimen, stretching offers countless benefits.
Proven benefits of stretching:
- Increased functional range of motion
- Reduction of lower back pain and back injury
- Improvement in posture
- Prevention and alleviation of muscle soreness after exercise
- Increase in the level of certain skills and muscular efficiency
- Promotion of mental relaxation
- Opportunity for meditation and self-evaluation
- Personal enjoyment and gratification
With all of these benefits, it’s clear that stretching should have a permanent place in your walking routine. Don’t let it go by the wayside!
