Every time you go to yoga class or do some simple stretches,
you know the poses and movements you're doing—but do you know exactly which
muscles you're working? If you're like us, probably not.
So when we came across this story, originally published on
Lifehack, we knew we had to share it. Not only are the images captivating, but
as Sharen Ross, author of the article and co-founder of Mazlo, writes,
"with this info, you can give yourself the nicest, best stretch."
(Not to mention properly alter your technique if you sense any pain.)
1. Camel Pose
Muscles highlighted: Rectus abdominus and external obliques.
This stretch is best reserved for people who have good flexibility already. Sit
on your heels and place your hands behind you as you push your hips up and
forward. Avoiding putting too much pressure on your lumbar spine. If you have
neck problems do not drop your head back.
2. Wide Forward Fold
Workouts
for Women, Muscles highlighted: Adductors. This is a great exercise to open
the hips and stretch the adductors and hamstrings. Start this stretch with your
knees bent and spine straight. As your muscles begin to release you can slowly
straighten your legs, round out your back, and reach for your feet
3. Frog Pose
Muscles Highlighted: Adductors. This is a deep groin stretch
that can place pressure on your knees so it's helpful to be on a soft surface.
4. Wide Side Lunge Pose
Muscles Highlighted: Adductors. Start with both feet forward
in a wide stance with your legs as straight as possible. Slowly walk your hands
to your right foot while bending your right knee and rotating your left toes up
to the ceiling, sitting into your right hip. Keep your right foot flat on the
ground.
5. Butterfly Stretch
Muscles Highlighted: Adductors. Start in a seated position
and bring the soles of your feet together and sit tall through your sit bones.
Progress this stretch by placing pressure on your knees with your hands.
6. Forearm Extensor Stretch
Muscles Highlighted: Forearm extensor. Start by packing your
shoulder down and back, then externally rotate the shoulder for the optimal
position to stretch the forearm muscle.
[Source: http://greatist.com/move/stretching-exercises-with-illustrations]
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