Are you sitting at a desk all day? Studies done by the CDC show that 1 in 4 Americans sit more than 8 hours a day! Sitting for extended periods of time has been linked to a wide range of health problems such as weight gain, and poor circulation which can lead to heart disease and/or cancer. It can also affect our performance of physical activities by leaving us with weak glutes and hamstrings through atrophy. If you aren't using those muscles they will stop working fully. It will also tighten up your hips and lower back muscles which can lead to chronic pain and several different injuries, it's important to have a solid foundation! The good news is you can do something about it! A few things that can help are daily stretching, foam rolling, and physical activity of course! Stretching is a very underestimated tool which can help alleviate aches and pains when done daily. It can also help increase blood flow, improve posture, expand you range of motion and flexibility. Stretching also increases physical performance in any activity and can also help calm the mind along with breathing exercises or meditation. It's been shown to decrease tension headaches as well. There are two main types of stretching static-holding a stretch in a comfortable position for a period of time, typically between 10 and 30 seconds which is great for post work out, or on it's own. Dynamic stretching-active movements that cause your muscles to stretch, but the stretch is not held in the end position. This more active and moving stretches like high knees. We all get tight muscles, which in turn cause pain. Going to a massage therapist or chiropractor would be ideal, however it can also be costly. Another great option is Foam rolling. Foam rolling can help release muscle tension, releive muscle soreness, and improve flexibility and range of motion. Doing both foam rolling and stretching together is a winning combination! Don't know how? A qualified professional can help show you which muscles you should focus on, and then guide you through the proccess. The last and most effective thing we can do for our body is to be physically active! Which can be as simple as walking, running, or hiking. Martial arts(American Kenpo,Boxing,Kickboxing,Jiu-Jitsu, Judo) and functional training can be very beneficial to the improvement of both your physical and mental well being. It is a great activity where you can see your improvements as you participate which is great for confidence and staying dedicated. For best results you should work with a professional who can layout a good plan for you. Working with a professional can help improve you quality of living tremendously! Come get in shape, learn new skills and recovery tools to become the best version of yourself! Come get started today!
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