Stomach stretches are important before and after exercise to prevent injury. Different stretches can be done while kneeling, standing, or lying down to warm up the four different stomach muscles. Yoga and exercise balls can also be incorporated into a stretching routine.
Stomach stretches are done to stretch the abdominal muscles before and after exercise. There are several different ways to approach stomach stretches. A stretching routine can be done while kneeling, standing, or lying down.
There are four different stomach muscles: the transverse abdominis, the internal obliques, the external obliques, and the rectus abdominis. Fitness experts generally recommend warming up each muscle individually to prevent painful strains, tears, or other injuries. The stomach muscles provide postural support, and a stomach ache or injury can affect someone even when they’re simply sitting at their desk. Practicing a variety of stomach stretches may prevent this painful situation.
A stomach stretch begins while you are lying flat on the floor with your hips and shoulders parallel to each other and your head carefully centered. Keeping your body perfectly aligned, the stretcher will raise your arms over your head and stretch them as far as possible. You will also point your toes, stretching out both your stomach and long, straight back. This position is usually held for 10 to 15 seconds, and is repeated several times. This stretch can also be done standing up if the athlete is in a confined space.
Some people may want to incorporate yoga into their daily stretching routine. One of the popular yoga stomach stretches is called upward dog. The athlete will begin lying on his stomach. In this position, he can stretch his stomach supporting only his upper body with his arms straight and closed. Then he will throw his head back as far as he can, looking up at the ceiling. This stomach stretch will usually be held for up to 15 seconds and repeated three to five times.
The oblique muscles of the stomach can be warmed up through a stretch called an arch. While standing, the person will raise their left hand above their head while leaning to the right. After holding this position for several seconds, he can switch, using his right arm and leaning to the left.
There are more stomach stretches available for those who have access to an exercise ball. The athlete can begin by sitting with their back aligned directly against the ball. Using his feet, he will slowly begin to push his back against the ball, lifting his butt off the ground and rolling the ball back against his back. His arms will be placed over his head and his hands will eventually meet the floor on the other side. The end result will be the person’s body forming a bridge over the ball.
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