How to Stretch to the Max Using Resistance Bands - 5 Easy Tips By Jake Devenz At Isnare.com Ezine Articles

Resistance bands can be used for a wide array of different reasons. They can help you create better form for your golf or tennis swing, they can increase your flexibility, and they can help you build muscle. You will also find that these bands are terrific for stretching your muscles to prevent injury when working out. Here are five different stretching exercises you can do with resistance bands.

1. Hamstring stretch
The first stretch you can perform with resistance bands is for your hamstrings. You will start by lying on the floor on your stomach. You will loop the band around your right foot while grabbing the other end of the band. It is important you keep your knees bent at the knees to prevent them from buckling. You will then slowly raise your right leg using the band and straighten it as much as possible without changing the position of your other leg. You will want to hold this position for 25-30 seconds and then switch legs.

2. Bent over rows
The next stretch to try out using resistance bands is bent over rows. Start by placing one foot on the band and the other behind the first one. Bend your body so that your back is at a 45 degree angle with the ground. Hold the band in your hand just about hip height while slowly raising it to your chest. You will do this by bending your elbows. Make sure you squeeze your shoulder blades together when doing the rowing motion to get the true effects.

3. Squats
One of the easier stretches you can do is squats. For this you will step on the resistance band with both of your feet which are separated about shoulder distance. From there, stretch the band to your shoulder as you begin to squat to the ground. It is vital you keep your hands in the same fixed position while doing this.

4. Hip stretch
Next on your list for stretches to perform using resistance bands is for your hip. You will start by lying on the floor and looping the band around your right foot while grabbing the band with your opposite hand. From there, take your right leg and place it across your body while keeping the left leg straight. Then take the right leg and place it as close to your hip as possible. Maintain this position for 20-30 seconds and then switch sides.

5. Side stretch
The final stretch you can do to loosen up your muscles is a side stretch. Sit in a cross-legged position while holding one side of the tube with your left hand and reaching the arm toward the right. You will then use your right arm to hold the other end of the band and pulling it to stretch the left side of your waist. You can hold this position for 20 seconds and then repeat the same process to stretch your right side.

It is important you take the time to stretch your muscles so that they are loose prior to you working out. Resistance bands can be a great way to stretch numerous muscles as you can see in this article.

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