1. Increased Circulation
Stretching has been proven to increase the blood flow and supply of nutrients to muscles and cartilage. This reduces muscle soreness after working out. The less sore our muscles are, the less painful it will be to work the same muscles and to exercise in general, and the more comfortable day-to-day life will be.
2. Flexibility
As we age, our muscles gradually become shorter and tighter, reducing overall flexibility. This restriction makes us more susceptible to muscle, tendon, and joint injuries. Stretching is primarily responsible for increasing flexibility, and reduces these risks. Increased flexibility also allows us to exercise more easily.
3. Increased Range of Motion (ROM)
Stretching has been shown to effectively increase ROM in joints. Increased ROM allows us to keep better balance. Better balance reduces our susceptibility to falls and the resulting injuries, especially as we age. Increased ROM also helps to keep us up and moving about!
4. Reduce Stress
Stress causes our muscles to contract, becoming tense, which can have negative effects on just about every part of our body. Gentle stretching exercises relax tense muscles associated with stress. Also, since stretching is an exercise, it has the same endorphin-boosting effects, improving our mood and the way we feel in general.
5. Alleviate Lower Back Pain
It's true: Millions of people struggle with chronic lower back pain. Also true: Stretching is an excellent way to strengthen the lower back muscles, alleviating soreness and pain. Since many muscles (quadriceps, hamstrings, lower back muscles, and hip flexors) contribute greatly to our posture, stretching these muscles has the ability to significantly reduce or eliminate lower back pain.
SOURCE: Five Benefits of Stretching
