Eva B’s cool-downs are quickly becoming popular among the old school yogis, dancers, and gymnasts in the house. We were surprised to see a few members hitting the splits too.
Post some of your cool-down favorites to comments.
Archive for the ‘Stretching’ Category
Flex Art
Wednesday, March 12th, 2008Dynamic Stretching
Wednesday, November 14th, 2007
Windmills with the KB
Sunday, June 24th, 2007
The kettlebell windmill is a wonderful exercise for the core musculature. Think of it as a twisty good morning. Not only is it a great stretch for the posterior chain (erector spinae, glutes, and hamstrings), it is also a strength builder for the transverse abdominis and internal oblique. When starting, choose a lighter weight and move up only when you’ve developed enough flexibility to get the raised arm perpendicular to the floor.
Back It Up
Friday, June 8th, 2007The muscles of your posterior chain — which include the erector spinae, glutes, and hamstrings — play a vital role in good weightlifting mechanics (squats, deadlifts, cleans, etc.).
Keep them strong and flexible so that they’ll be there when you need them.
Flex Your Strength
Saturday, April 14th, 2007The dynamic and talented Jessica Dibiase demonstrates the sequence of the Dive Bomber. In addition to pissing off some yogis who want their way or the highway, this exercise is excellent for building upper body strength and improving hamstring & core flexibility.
Ask and You Shall Receive
Wednesday, March 28th, 2007
Elisha and Brenda are demonstrating a great stretch for the pec and back muscles. While in the prone position, start with your arms behind you and lift your chest from the floor (think cobra pose). Once situated, have your partner gently pull your arms towards the ceiling. This is a great one for shoulder girdle flexibility.
Can you think of another good stretch for the shoulders?
My Achin’ Back and Hips
Tuesday, March 27th, 2007
Many IC members, especially beginners, experience tenderness or soreness deep within the lower abdomen and along the lumbar spine and hips as a result of functional training. No fun!
What stretches have helped you mitigate muscle soreness and potential injury while at the IC?
Mars on Earth
Sunday, February 11th, 2007Mars just joined our 6am bootcamp this month and she has quickly become one of our morning favorites! She is often heard mumbling obscenities under her breath which provide us with essential comic relief in the darkness of dawn.
Thursday Evening Cobra
Saturday, December 9th, 2006
Flexibility training is often the most neglected aspect of strength and conditioning programs. Why? It’s apparently not exciting enough! …but, it’s key to achieving full range of motion (the degree of movement that occurs at a joint) thereby improving an athlete’s performance and also decreasing the risk of musculoskeletal injury. Stretching post-workout also helps lessen muscular soreness. So, before you pack it up and head off for that morning latte or to watch the season finale of Grey’s Anatomy, stick around for the mat work!