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SUGGESTED STRETCHES
The correct form for several basic stretches is shown at the
right. Move slowly as you stretch—never bounce.
1. Toe Touch Stretch
Stand with your knees bent slightly and slowly bend forward
from your hips. Allow your back and shoulders to relax as you
reach down toward your toes as far as possible. Hold for 15
counts, then relax. Repeat 3 times. Stretches: Hamstrings,
back of knees and back.
2. Hamstring Stretch
Sit with one leg extended. Bring the sole of the opposite foot
toward you and rest it against the inner thigh of your extended
leg. Reach toward your toes as far as possible. Hold for 15
counts, then relax. Repeat 3 times for each leg. Stretches:
Hamstrings, lower back and groin.
3. Calf/Achilles Stretch
With one leg in front of the other, reach forward and place
your hands against a wall. Keep your back leg straight and
your back foot flat on the floor. Bend your front leg, lean for-
ward and move your hips toward the wall. Hold for 15 counts,
then relax. Repeat 3 times for each leg. To cause further
stretching of the achilles tendons, bend your back leg as well.
Stretches: Calves, achilles tendons and ankles.
4. Quadriceps Stretch
With one hand against a wall for balance, reach back and
grasp one foot with your other hand. Bring your heel as close
to your buttocks as possible. Hold for 15 counts, then relax.
Repeat 3 times for each leg. Stretches: Quadriceps and hip
muscles.
5. Inner Thigh Stretch
Sit with the soles of your feet together and your knees out-
ward. Pull your feet toward your groin area as far as possible.
Hold for 15 counts, then relax. Repeat 3 times. Stretches:
Quadriceps and hip muscles.
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Cooling Down
Finish each workout with 5 to 10 minutes of stretching.
Stretching after exercise develops flexibility and helps
prevent post-exercise problems.
EXERCISE FREQUENCY
To maintain or improve your condition, plan three
workouts each week, with at least one day of rest
between workouts. After a few months of regular exer-
cise, you may complete up to five workouts each
week, if desired.
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