Massage Therapy Improves Flexibility
Muscle injuries are more common now than they were 50 years ago.
That's not because we're exercising harder. It's because we're more
sedentary. What's worse, as we age our joints tend to tighten,
making range of motion and flexibility even more restricted.
Massage therapy is a beneficial treatment for maintaining and
improving flexibility and motion. By working on muscles, connective
tissues, tendons, ligaments, and joints, regular massage can
improve your flexibility and range of motion, keeping your joints
more fluid and making them less injury prone.
As you can see, massage is a great way to relax stressed
muscles, stimulate blood flow and improve flexibility. So is daily
stretching.
One benefit of stretching is an improvement of blood
circulation, which aids in illness recovery and disease prevention.
Elongating muscles will also improve posture and your joints' range
of motion. Stretching and massage are even more important for
someone who is physically active. Loose muscles are less prone to
strains and sprains during a workout, according to ACE.
Incorporating massage and stretching into a fitness routine also
will help reduce soreness after a workout. Stretching beforehand
will allow greater freedom of movement when exercising and longer
workout periods because it helps prevent a buildup of lactic acid
in your blood. Regular post-workout massages can then aid in the
recovery and relaxation process.
Benefits of Improved Flexibility and Range of
Motion
- Stimulates the production of the body's natural lubricants to
keep flexibility at a maximum
- Can enhance athletic performance
- Helps prevent active lifestyle injuries by staying
flexible