I posted about the two different types of stretching one can do on my IG and FB.
Dynamic is stretching through movements. Great for a warm up or before a workout.
Static is when you stretch and hold a position. Best done after a workout or before bed.
I would recommend utilizing both types. Both forms of stretching, together, will help increase blood flow & range of motion. Stretching also helps keep your joints aligned and your muscle moving properly.
Now I want to tell you about some tools that you can use to stretch with.
Using a foam rolling is like giving yourself a massage. You roll the tight muscle to increase blood flow to the area. Here are some of my favorite body parts to roll out using a foam roller...
-Quadriceps
-IT Band
-Adductors/Groin
-Calves
-Glutes
-Back
2. LACROSSE BALL (you can use a softball, baseball, tennis ball...etc.)
This is very similar to using a foam roller, just more invasive/intense. A lacrosse ball is smaller, therefore it can get deeper into the muscles. I would recommend not starting with this form of rolling, definitely work up to this.
My favorite body parts to roll out using a lacrosse ball...
-Feet
-Glutes
-Hamstrings
-Hip Flexors
-Chest/Pecs
-Shoulders
-Traps
Bands or straps can help you perform static stretching. They help you reach things you might not be able to reach with your hands (like your feet).
My favorite body parts to stretch using bands...
-Hamstrings
-Adductors/Groin
-Hips
-Glutes
-Shoulders
-Chest
-Back
*Note: There are plenty of other tools you can use.. But these are the main ones that I use.
You can check out the other tools in the links above.
I will be making a video of most of these stretches. You will be able to find in on my YouTube Channel.