Flexibility is one of those funny use it or lose it pop in things.
(That’s her above!)
Even if you have no Cirque du Soleil aspirations, working on your flexibility has important benefits.
A lack of flexibility may be leaving you susceptible to injury.
Translation: You’re not able to reach your full potential inotherworkouts if your muscles aren’t pliable.
So start integrating more flexibility training into your routine with the eight stretches below from Alyssa.
But remember to be patient with your body and to never push beyond your limit.
Low Lunge with Quad Stretch
Start standing with feet together.
Step right foot forward and lunge down, keeping right knee stacked over right ankle and back leg straight.
Untuck left toes and allow left foot, shin, and knee to rest on the ground.
Hold for 60 seconds; then repeat on opposite side.
Lizard Pose
Start indownward facing dog.
Lower hips down as far as you’re able to.
If you’re able, come to forearms.
Hold for 60 seconds; then repeat on opposite side.
Wide-Legged Forward Fold
Spread legs about three feet apart.
Hold for 60 seconds.
Forward Fold With Shoulder Stretch
Start with feet hip-distance apart and toes pointing forward.
Interlace fingers behind back.
Hold for 60 seconds.
Cat Cow
Start on all fours, wrists directly under shoulders, knees under hips.
As you exhale, round into your upper back and feel a stretch between shoulder blades.
Continue for 30 seconds.
Downward Facing Dog to Plank
Start in downward facing dog.
Exhale and return to downward facing dog.
Continue moving between these two poses for 30 seconds.
Malasana Squats
Start with feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart and toes point out about 30 degrees.
Lengthen lower back towards the ground as you lift chest towards ceiling.
Inhale, press through heels and come to standing, reaching arms overhead.
Exhale to return to squatting position, hands at heart center in a prayer position.
Continue for 30 seconds.
Lizard Hip Circles
Start in downward facing dog.
Lower hips down as far as you’ve got the option to.
If you’re able, come to forearms.
Begin to roll your hips in circles in one direction a few times, then reverse the direction.
Repeat on the opposite side.
Photo Credit: Instagram @caleyalyssa
