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Dynamic Stretches
When you're getting ready to run, ride a bike, play tennis, or do some other activity that requires limber joints and muscles, skip the static stretches like lying on the floor and pulling your knee up to your chest. Instead of tuning you up, these stretches may undercut performance.
Dynamic stretches, like the ones in this video, are a better warmup routine. They will loosen your joints to improve your range of motion and improve blood flow to tissues throughout your body. This helps your cells get the oxygen and energy they need for any athletic endeavor.
Stretching is an excellent thing you can do for your health. To discover simple, yet effective moves that can help you limber up for sports, improve your balance and prevent falls, increase your flexibility, and even help relieve arthritis, back, and knee pain, checkout the Stretching Special Health Report from Harvard Medical School.
Additional Videos:
Everyday stretches that can be worked into any exercise or stretching routine »
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No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
Effects of sleep deprivation
Progressive relaxation techniques for insomnia
Prescription insomnia medications: What to know
How to test for sleep apnea: At home or in a lab
How sleep deprivation can harm your health
Extreme heat endangers older adults: What to know and do
Want to cool down? 14 ideas to try
What is a PSA test and how is it used?
Blood sugar–friendly fruits if you have diabetes
Gratitude enhances health, brings happiness — and may even lengthen lives
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