Practice stretching exercises on a regular basis – this will help your body be flexible and feel wonderful. Gentle stretching before and after working out relaxes your body and lengthens your muscles, which helps to prevent injuries. Stretching will help your heartbeat slow down to your pre-exercise heart rate, and you will feel full of energy rather than exhausted and lethargic.

In order to benefit from stretching, make each stretch last at least 30 seconds. Proper breathing technique during stretches is very important, as you have to breathe easily and deeply. Forced and jerked movements are not recommended.

The most valuable stretch for your back as well as for your hamstrings is leaning forward. Begin by placing your feet hip-width apart, and point your toes straight ahead. Then relax your knees and slowly lean forward down from your hips. Focus your eyes on your feet and swing your arms. Take deep breaths and proceed with stretching your lower back until you feel that stretch is transferred to the back of your thighs. To get back in the initial position, bend your knees a bit and roll up slowly. This stretch will also relieve your shoulder and neck tension.