Slide show: A guide to basic stretches
Safe stretching technique
Previous Next 1 of 10 Stretching safely

It's helpful to include stretching in your exercise regimen. Stretching can increase flexibility and improve your joints' range of motion, helping you move more freely. And ensuring that you have equal flexibility on both sides might help protect you from injury.

Before stretching, warm up with 5 to 10 minutes of light activity. Better yet, stretch after a workout. Keep stretches gentle and slow. Don't bounce. Breathe through your stretches. If you feel pain, you've stretched too far.

Hold a stretch for about 30 seconds, to the point of a slight pull, on each side. Repeat the stretch on both sides 2 to 4 times. Stretching is recommended 2 to 3 days a week.

If you have health conditions or injuries, talk to your doctor or physical therapist about which stretches are right for you.

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