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Stretch Abs
Stretch It: Lying Ab Stretch
After an intense core strengthening session with your trainer, your abs are so sensitive, it can even hurt to laugh. So here's a relaxing stretch you can do to lengthen your abdominal muscles, and relieve tension in your middle.
For instructions on how to do this stretch, read more
Hit the Hay: Cobra
Stretching in bed relaxes your body before going to sleep, and it can also be a great way to gently wake up in the morning. This gentle stretch will lengthen the muscles in your abs, chest, and neck, and it'll also increase flexibility in your spine.
To find out how to do this stretch, hop in bed and read more
Stretch It: Abs
We spend a lot of time working towards that coveted six pack, but we often forget to stretch our ab muscles after working them.
So here is a simple stretch that not only does wonders for stretching out your abs but also feels great — it also happens to be my favorite stretch:
- Lie face down on the floor, preferably on a mat.
- Position hands on floor to sides of shoulders.
Get on the Ball: Plank to Pike
Figuring out how to work an exercise ball into your workout is totally worth it! The ball can transform basic exercise into a super challenging more effective move – crunches on the ball are a perfect example. One of my favorite ball exercise is the Plank to Pike move (or in Pilates we call it "Up Stretch" like the Reformer exercise).
Stretch It: Extended Puppy
Take a break to stretch your spine and shoulders with this relaxing stretch. Not only does it make your spine feel longer and your shoulders more open, but relaxing your head to the floor also helps relieve stress and tension.
This stretch looks a little sexier than others I've posted, so maybe do this one when you have a little privacy.
No Equipment Necessary: Tabletop Lift
Tabletop may look easy (shown in the photo on the left), but once you hold it for a while, you'll feel your thighs, booty, and triceps burning. It's also a great exercise that will open your shoulders and chest. Here's a variation that will strengthen your core and increase flexibility in your lower back and hamstrings.
Couch Time: Stretch For Your Back and Abs
Sick of just sitting on the couch? Looking to increase flexibility in your spine? Then try this move the next time you find yourself becoming one with your couch.
Which Body Part Changed Most Postpartum?
The human body is an amazing work of art, especially the female form that can stretch and shrink with the birth of a child. While many moms can get back to the prebaby weight or even work their way back to abs of steel, their postpartum bodies will never be the same. A herniated belly button, stretch-marked tummies, or wide hips may be the indicators of motherhood that mommy will never be able to change.
You Asked: Stretch For Sciatica
Hey Fit,
I've been having issues with my sciatic nerve lately, I was wondering if you could post some stretches and/or yoga poses that would help with sciatica? Thanks!
— Hitting a Nerve
I feel your pain.
What is your FAVORITE exercise?
We all have exercises we do every time we workout - what is yours?
What is your FAVORITE exercise?
Sit ups - Abdominal work makes me feel like I am working IT
Bicep curls - Bring me Madonna's arms on a platter
Hamstring curls - Got to balance the legs
Push ups - I am GI Jane
Stretching - In a past life I think I was a cat
The lat pull down - Even though I can't see my back I want it toned!
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