Active stretching refers to a type of flexibility aimed at increasing the functional movement of the muscles.
It relates to the distance you can actively move your limbs and stretch your muscles during a movement.
It is different from traditional stretching (static stretching) because you are not holding the postures for any duration nor using any external object for support but your own muscle strength.
An active stretching routine increases your flexibility by developing your nervous system to allow greater degrees of movement.
This routine on it's own can often clear up many aches, pains and stiffness.
Done first thing in the morning it can greatly increase your energy and desire to be active throughout the day.
Active stretching is popular in the work places within Japan where employees do this before the days work.
Give it a go and see how you feel The example routine shown includes a few basic exercises used as part of a full body routine that effectively prepares the body for the day or exercise session ahead.
Do not perform any of these exercises if you have any undue pain or they hurt during the movement.
Over time as you increase your flexibility and co-ordination you will be able to perform more advanced active stretching exercises which bring even further benefit to the body.
Do 10-15 movements per exercise and ensure they are comfortably controlled to the point of a gentle stretch.
If a movement is especially stiff then repeat the exercise a few times...
Click here to see photos of active stretching exercises [http://www.
one2onenutrition.
co.
uk/newsletter articles/active-stretching.
htm]