Most people do fine with basic stretching exercises that require nothing more than body position and gravity. You can still find tools that can be used to help you improve your flexibility. If using some devices you can stretch when you otherwise would not, it is worth investing in them. Here are some useful gadgets to invest in:
An elastic mat: While you can pad a hard floor with a thick towel or blanket, a mat is a better reminder to stretch. A mat can also be used for abdominal or floor exercises. Some stretching mats can cost upwards of $100, although a top-of-the-line mat, with adequate cushioning and long enough to keep your head from hitting the hardwood floor, can be purchased for $60 or less. The mats can also be compacted for storage. Some can be folded while others can be rolled up.
A large plastic ball: They can be used to safely and effectively improve the flexibility of the lower back. You can wrap your body around it, either forward, backward, or to the sides. A large ball is also useful for exercises that strengthen the abs and legs. They can be purchased for around $30. The correct fit is important. When you sit on the ball, your thighs should be roughly parallel to the ground. However, if you lack flexibility, you would benefit from a slightly larger ball. You won’t have to bend as much. To stretch, don’t inflate the ball all the way; In this way, it will be easier to shape your body and you will be less likely to roll.
Strap or string to stretch: These nylon bands (dynamic stretching strap or stretching strap) are to be used with the isolated active stretching method. They can be purchased for between $15 and $30 (including a video). They are useful if you are too rigid to adopt certain stretching postures. For example, if you’re sitting on the floor with one leg out but can’t reach out and touch your toes, wrap the strap around your instep while holding a loop in each hand. After holding that position for a while, if you can stretch a little further, you can move your hands up to the loop that is a little closer to your toes. This can also be done with yacht rope which is available at your local hardware store. Make sure you get one that is twice your height in length.
The Prostretch: This device is used to stretch the calf and shin muscles, as well as the sides of the ankles. The Prostretch consists of a shoe tread cast in hard plastic, mounted on one or two rockers (wider versions of the rockers found on rocking chairs). To use it, you need to place your foot on the tread and drop your heel toward the floor. The toes point up, giving you an effective calf stretch. If you lack flexibility, you can even do this stretch from a sitting position. Since the Prostretch supports the entire foot, the calf stretch will be more effective than dangling your feet from the curb, although most curbs won’t cost you $25.
Precor Stretch Trainer: This gadget consists of a seat with a handlebar. It has tilt capabilities, allowing you to lean back and forward in a stretch. Your body weight and gravity contribute to the intensity of the stretch. You can stretch almost every muscle in your body by changing the position of your arms and legs, all without ever leaving your seat. For example, if you want to stretch your hamstrings, place your leg in front of the seat, then lean back. (This has the same effect as putting one leg in front of you and then reaching for your toe.) The handlebars are equipped with wrist straps so that you do not fall backwards in case you lose your balance. The device also has an adjustable safety pin to help you mount it correctly.
The downside is that you’ll have $700 less if you buy the Stretch Trainer. However, being in shape is very important, people who have a hard time getting on and off the floor gracefully can definitely benefit from it. It can help him stretch effectively by himself, so he doesn’t need to ask three other people to help him up after he’s done stretching.