This article by Steven Arculeo talks about the many benefits of stretching – apply these to a work environment and you have an easy way to lift energy and improve employee health and wellbeing.

As our lives get busier and busier with our jobs, home projects, parenting, travel, and family obligations, etc., exercise can become less of a priority. The most common excuse is, “I don’t have the time to work out”. We have all heard this at some point, whether it was us or someone else saying it. Unfortunately, when exercise falls down our list of importance it directly affects our mental and physical health. For those who fall into such a category of excuses, a power stretching routine can be a simple and easy way to get back on track. A power stretching routine consists of exercises that work on increasing flexibility, core strength, balance, and postural awareness. Power stretching has numerous health benefits, is easy to start, and does not require huge amounts of time. The following are some benefits of a power stretching routine.

1. Increased flexibility. Flexible muscles can improve your daily performance. Tasks such as lifting packages, bending to tie your shoes or hurrying to catch a bus become easier and less tiring.

2. Increased joint range of motion. As we age, our muscles tighten and we lose full range of motion of our joints. Simple activities that we once took for granted, like doing the dishes, picking things up from the floor, and washing our hair can all become difficult. A power stretching routine can help lengthen your muscles and make these daily activities easier and more enjoyable.

3. Improved circulation. Power stretching improves circulation of blood to the muscles and joints. Increased blood circulation brings nutrients to our cells and removes waste byproducts.

4. Decreased stress and tension. Power stretching relaxes the tense muscles that often accompany stress.

5. Improved posture. Poor posture can sneak up on all of us. An example is an employee who sits at the computer all day long that is not aware of body mechanics. Over long periods of time the pectoral (chest) muscles tighten causing forward rolled shoulders. This results in a tremendous strain to, not only the upper body muscles, but also the spine. By loosening pectoral muscles one will find it much easier to sit tall as they are able to move the shoulders back comfortably.

6. Improved athletic performance. By increasing flexibility you are allowing the joints to move more freely through full range of motion. This will allow the muscles to function optimally.

7. Helps build strength. Muscles work in opposition. When doing a bicep curl the bicep contracts and the triceps lengthen. If the triceps are not flexible this will prevent the bicep from fully contracting. This will prohibit the strength in the bicep.

A power stretching routine is beneficial for everyone. However, before beginning a power stretching routine it is recommended you are guided through a routine that benefits you and your lifestyle.

Any kind of stretching is a quick and easy way to boost energy and mood. The best thing is it’s free of charge, and can be done anytime and anywhere and you don’t need any special equipment – just your own body! All workplace productivity can be drastically improved by implementing a group stretch session every hour. Ask a personal trainer or us about a really quick and really easy stretching routine for your staff. By spending 2 or 3 minutes several times a day employee health and wellbeing, focus and work outcomes will thrive!