Stretching legs help?

Question

Not quite the typical question... And I need someone knowledgeable to answer.

I really want MORE flexibility in my legs but wondering about how I need to go about it since I wonder if the kind of intense stretching I might be recommended to do might be dangerous...

Because I have probably the worst office, stuck at your desk, job ever. I'm a full time receptionist and there are few times I can leave my desk all day. Granted for decent circulation and such, I -do- stand up a handful of times every hour because I know it's bad to remain seated for hours at a time.

So, this job I have helps contribute to unusually tight muslces all down the backs of my legs.

I already stretch some at home to counter balance the sitting all day.

And with wanting more flexibility and hearing sometimes that one must stretch leg possitions to where you are feeling pain, I just wonder how safe that is for my stretching super tight muscles in that way. Can't I damage something?

And sorry I don't need unhelpful comments saying to get another job, because any jobs requiring one to stand are not job I want to do.

Any good advice may get you Best Answer. So please help!

Answer 1

Yoga is awesome to improve flexibility. I recommend it to patients all the time. Besides creating and maintaining flexibility, it will also be a great way to relieve stress and tension in your body. Also, getting a good massage can help too. :)

amtamassage.org

Answer 2

Using good stretching technique is very important.  I would recommend before stretching to warm your body.  That could be as easy as walking for 10 minutes.  Think of your muscles as taffy---if you try to pull on "or stretch" cold taffy, it will just break.  But if you warm the taffy it will stretch.  Your muscles are similar---if your muscles are warm, it is likely  they will respond by increased flexibility without hurting them.

You may also consider yoga as a way to increase flexibility.

Here are a URL with online workouts you may consider:

http://www.workoutsondemand.com/workouts...

Note at the bottom of the page are short stretching workout videos (called express stretch #1 & #2)

Answer 3

Any stretching you do will be good for you, as long as there's no pain.

I love putting my leg up on the counter and reaching for my toes, with the leg perfectly straight.  I also love "the bicycle." You lie on the floor on your back, hands on your lower back, and up you go with legs up in  the air.  Then ride the bicycle.  You can make up other exercises in that position.  Like spreading your legs far apart.  It's good to feel the stretch, but no pain.

Bless you and good luck!  :)