Stretching Strap

Some of the best stretching is done when you have an exercise buddy who can help you hold a stretch deeper and longer than you could alone. However many of us don’t always have a stretching buddy and although traditional stretches like reaching for your toes is great, it can feel like something is missing. This is where a stretching strap (also known as a yoga strap) can be very useful. A stretching strap is a long, non elastic strap that can have loops but does not need to be fancy. Here are three examples of how to use the strap to help give you a better stretch. Be sure to hold each stretch for at least 10-15 seconds and breathe deeply. Be sure you are not over doing it; the stretch should feel like an uncomfortable tugging sensation not a painful tearing sensation.

Calf Stretch
Sitting on the floor with your legs out in front of you, lasso your toes on both feet with the strap and tug. Hold this stretch and repeat as often as you like. Many people like to do one leg at a time because one could be more flexible than the other and stretching them individually can provide a better stretch.

Quad stretch
The quads are a group of muscles in front of your thigh, stretching your quads and the front of your hips is a great way to loosen muscles and prevent injury. Lying on your belly, bend your right knee so your toes are pointing to the ceiling. Wrap the strap around the front your toes and pull your heel down to your buttocks so you can feel the stretch in the front of your leg. Repeat several times and then switch to your left leg.

Hamstring Stretch
The hamstring muscles are a group of muscles on the back of your leg that are often neglected. To stretch these muscles, lie on your back with your legs straight out in front of you; raise one leg up so it is perpendicular to the floor. Wrap the strap over the arch of your foot and pull your straight (or very slightly bent) leg closer to your body so you can feel the stretch in the back of your leg. Repeat several times and then switch to the other leg.

These are just a few simple examples of some stretches that can be performed using a strap. Experiment on your own and see what feels good. You’ll be relieving stress and tension and getting fit.