Dynamic stretches involve movement that warms up the muscles. Below are simple dynamic stretches you can do before you begin activity.
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Arm Circles
You can also perform this stretch on the floor. Simply pull both legs to the chest at the same time.
- Standing or sitting, activate the upper body muscles: chest, arms and back with big arm circles forward then backwards.
- Add variation by adding "thumbs up" as the arms pull back.
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Knee Ups/Donkey Kicks
- Similar to an exaggerated walk to warm up the hip/pelvic complex and legs. Lift knees up to a 45 degree angle as you walk forward 10 to 15 steps.
- Turn to walk back and kick heels up toward the glutes to activate the back of the legs.
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- Add variety by bringing arms overhead and behind the back to help engage your core muscles.
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Leg Swings
This stretch is for the abdomen and also stretches the lower back.
- Hold on to a chair or something similar for balance.
- With a straight leg but unlocked knee, swing your leg forward and then backward.
- Start with small swings and gradually increase the range of motion. Include side-to-side motion as well.
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- Throughout this stretch for your hip region, keep your upper body straight. Do not lean forward or backward with the swing.
- Do 10 to 20 swings and then switch legs.
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