Download Article
Download Article
This article shows how to properly get a full body stretch before exercising. It is divided into five parts which each contain easy to follow instructions and a start/finish picture demonstration of the specific stretch. There are helpful tips and warnings located at the bottom of the page.
Steps
-
Sit on the floor with your legs straight.
-
Bend your left knee and place that foot over your right leg.
-
Place your left hand on the ground.
-
Bend your right elbow, place it on your left knee, and turn to the left and hold for 5 to 10 seconds.
-
Switch sides. Repeat 3 to 4 times taking a small break in between.
Advertisement
-
Stand straight with your feet placed together.
-
Cup your hands and place them directly over your head.
-
Bend your upper body to the right and hold for 5 to 10 seconds
-
Return to start position.
-
Bend your upper body to the left and hold for 5 to 10 seconds.
-
Take a small break.
-
Repeat 3 to 4 times.
Advertisement
Expert Q&A
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
Advertisement
Reader Videos
Tips
- Make sure you stay hydrated while you stretch and during your workout by drinking plenty of water.Thanks
- Stretching is not only beneficial before exercising, but also afterwards.Thanks
- The lunge position: One leg is positioned forward with knee bent and foot flat on the ground while the other leg is positioned behindThanks
Submit a Tip
All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
Name
Please provide your name and last initial
Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
Advertisement
Warnings
- Injury is possible if these stretches aren't done properly. You should stop stretching when you can’t relax into the stretch anymore. Otherwise, your body will tense up and get tight, which might lead you to hurt yourself.Thanks
- If you feel any indication of injury or pain, stop the stretch.Thanks
Advertisement
Expert Interview
Thanks for reading our article! If you'd like to learn more about pre-workout stretching, check out our in-depth interview with Jesse Gaynor .
About This Article
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 39,563 times.
Reader Success Stories
- "I was always looking for a perfect stretch session before exercising. I finally found it! Thank you, wikiHow, for this wonderful article with clear instructions and images. Keep going!" ..." more
Advertisement