Mobile and flexible athletes move more efficiently and can be less likely to suffer injury.\u00a0 Unfortunately, from my research, I have found that stretching is the most often \u201cskipped\u201d part of an athlete\u2019s workout.\u00a0\u00a0 For one, it\u2019s done at the end of the workout when you just want to be finished.\u00a0 And, for two, it can be boring.\u00a0 To combat these \u201cexcuses\u201d I created these simple and efficient 4-minute stretch routines.\u00a0 These routines should be performed in conjunction with some foam rolling.\u00a0 All you need for these is a small area, an interval timer or watch, and a mat or some padding (optional).<\/p>\n
The routines are divided into 12, 20 second stretches done in succession for a total of 4-minutes.\u00a0 So, you are only holding 12 different positions for 20 seconds each.\u00a0 I like to use the interval timer to keep me honest (I tend to stop early) and on-track.\u00a0\u00a0 Each routine is slightly different, using different stretches and emphasis.\u00a0 Here is an example of one of these routines, click the link below and follow along.<\/p>\n