You may not realize how inflexible you are until you go to reach for something that you used to be able to reach. Or you play a sport you have always enjoyed and your body just is not performing the same. You may also notice that you are not as flexible as you used to be when you go to stretch. Believe it or not, there are ways you can increase your flexibility. Read this article for tips. 

Yoga or Ballet Fitness

Although yoga and ballet are not always high intensity, they still offer many benefits for your body and mind. Yoga advocates, you listen to your body and take your time while you get into each pose. The best poses for flexibility may be the Malasana and the Padangusthasana. These terms mean the Squat Pose and Big Toe Pose and they are only some of many poses out there. Ballet and ballet fitness are keenly focused on good technique and the correct balance of strength and flexibility. This is the key thing that shapes a dancer's long lean supple muscles without any bulk. Ballet fitness is more accessible than ever now with some great online workouts and classes you can try from home

There are numerous resources out there for beginner yogis. If you attend a class in person, simply tell the instructor that you are a beginner and still working on your flexibility. Do not forget to hydrate before and after and provide your body with plenty of nutrients. Be sure to check out Le-Vel Thrive reviews for inspiration. 

Tai Chi

Tai Chi was developed in China and it is a great exercise for people of all ages. After practicing consistently, you will notice an improvement in your flexibility as well as your balance. Tai Chi is a type of martial arts, however, it is non-competitive. It is all about inner work. Even if you have chronic conditions, this exercise is said to be safe for all.

There are different styles of Tai Chi including Ten Style, Yang Style, and Wu style. Some styles focus more on self-defense and others are simply on improving health. When you find a Tai Chi instructor, it is fine to ask which style they specialize in. Let them know your goals and preferences so that they can point you in the right direction. 

Simple Daily Stretching

You will definitely notice an improvement in your flexibility once you start to incorporate some simple stretching into your daily routine. For a beginner, you may want to start with dynamic stretching like lifting your knee to your chest. You may even see how close you come to touching your toes when you bend over. Try sitting down with your feet touching and bending your head to your toes. 

One thing you will want to remember is that when you are stretching, take your time and hold the pose for at least twenty to thirty seconds. Quick stretches that are not held in place do not allow your muscles to actually stretch out and can actually harm you. The more often you stretch, the sooner you will notice an advancement in your flexibility. 

Weight Lifting

An important tip to keep in mind is that there are different degrees of flexibility. The average person does not need to be as flexible as an acrobat or professional dancer. If living a better quality of life is your goal, then you will know when you have reached that goal. Combining strength and stretch work is key. Stretching will lengthen your muscles but lifting weights will increase the strength of your muscles allowing you to bend and reach further under control.

Stretching with resistance bands is also a good form of resistance because you are working against the weight of your own body. But you may want to take it to another level and lift actual dumbbells. If you are not sure where to start, seek help from a professional trainer or watch videos online for advice. Keep limbered and do not be afraid to try something new.