Is it possible to become really flexible

The answer is easy: dedication and patience. There are tons of beginner yoga routines for flexibility to get started with, but even so, you must remember a few things:. Try to stretch daily for at least 10 minutes. Generally, it is recommended to stretch after exercise to decrease the risk of injury, it also helps with sore muscles. If you want to see results you should keep at it for at least one month. This makes any excuses invalid. Here are a few stretches that are safe for beginners and can help you improve your flexibility step by step.

All stretches should be held to a count of I prefer this over a traditional forward fold because people have the tendency to reach for the floor, even when their body might not be ready yet. This is a gentle stretch for the hamstrings and prepares you for full forward folds. You can explore adding stretches to your morning routine, after a workout, while watching TV or make it part of your bedtime routine to help you sleep.

How it works : Training for flexibility takes a lot of time and patience. It could take weeks or months to see any noticeable results. Pick smaller targets that you can work towards each day to help you measure your progress and keep your goals in check.

Taking progress videos at the end of each stretching session helped me 1 work towards an end action and 2 attempt the final stretched position. I felt a sense of accomplishment when I could set up my webcam and see that I was a little more flexible than I was at the start of the stretching session.

Pick your target — for example, taking progress pictures after stretching or simply finding a spot on the ground that you can reach for. Whichever target you choose, take a moment to acknowledge your accomplishments as you continue with your daily practice. This will help you make little improvements each day. How it works : Find a stretch variation where you feel mild discomfort. The idea is not to push to the point where you feel pain.

If you are inflexible, start with modified stretches using yoga blocks. Practicing with yoga blocks allows you to focus on correcting your form. Work on form first for best results and depth will improve naturally. How it works: Stretching while watching TV will distract you from any discomfort while holding a stretch. It also helps your muscles relax to prepare for better sleep and gives your body a break from prolonged periods of sitting.

Stretching is more doable when you can pair it with a fun activity that you may already be doing on your down time. No matter how inflexible you think you are, anyone can improve their range of motion by following these 8 stretching tips for inflexible people.

Flexibility has allowed me to explore and play with new ranges of movement. Really nice tips. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives. Be respectful, keep it civil and stay on topic. We delete comments that violate our policy , which we encourage you to read. Discussion threads can be closed at any time at our discretion.

The best stretches to become more flexible Learn to touch your toes even if your hamstrings are as stiff as boards. Amanda Capritto. Can you touch your toes? Getty Images Can't bend over and touch your toes? Read more: The best ab exercises for a stronger core 1. Start and end each day with static stretches Static stretches allow for deep, isolated stretching. Rather than trying to get deeper and deeper into the bend, relax and move!

Put a little bend in your knees, and sway gently side to side. If you're looking for more flexibility, the key is moving more. Widen your stance, so your body is more stable and ready to move. You might lean so far off to the right that your left leg lengthens, and the foot might even leave the ground!

Same thing on the other side. Your focus should be on moving easily and comfortably all around where you are. If you do this technique across the board, you can become more flexible and mobile at the same time.

Balance is a good thing. It's always best to listen to your body—while becoming more flexible might be uncomfortable at times, nothing should ever be painful. Listen to your body's cues and only push it as far as it can handle, even if it's little by little.

Our FREE doctor-approved gut health guide. You are now subscribed Be on the lookout for a welcome email in your inbox! Main Navigation. Log in Profile. Saved Articles. Contact Support. Log Out. Your cart is empty.

Our online classes and training programs allow you to learn from experts from anywhere in the world. Explore Classes. Co-Founder Of Strala Yoga. Last updated on March 26, Let go of the idea that stretching makes you flexible. Rather than holding yourself in your "deepest stretch" and waiting for it to be over, try moving around gently. Remember to breathe deeply.