1. Home
  2. People & Relationships
  3. Senior Living

Stretching Exercises for Seniors: Increase Freedom of Movement

By , About.com Guide

1 of 4

Stretching Exercises: Before You Start

Stretching to increase your flexibility and freedom of movement will help you do more of the activities you enjoy. Here are a few basic stretching exercises from the National Institutes of Health:

Before you start, follow these safety tips:

  • Check with your health care provider to make sure these stretching exercises are safe for you.
  • Always warm up before stretching exercises by doing some easy walking or arm-pumping first, or by doing stretching exercise after endurance or strength exercises.
  • Mild discomfort or a mild pulling sensation is normal, but stretching should never cause pain, especially joint pain. If you feel pain, stop at once and consult your health care provider.
  • Never bounce into a stretch -- make slow, steady movements to help your muscles stretch naturally.
Explore Senior Living
About.com Special Features

Your last name may reveal a compelling story about your family history. More >

Is someone in your life passive aggressive? Find out why and how to handle it. More >

  1. Home
  2. People & Relationships
  3. Senior Living
  4. Exercise & Fitness
  5. Basic Exercise Series
  6. Senior Exercise: Stretching Increases Flexibility, Freedom of Movement>

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.