Pregnancy Stretching & Flexibility
Maintaining flexibility during pregnancy is important for preventing discomfort and preparing your body for labor and delivery. In this article, we'll share some gentle stretches that can help improve flexibility and provide relief from common pregnancy-related discomforts.
1. Hamstring Stretch
This stretch targets the back of your thighs, helping to relieve tightness and discomfort in your legs and lower back.
- Sit on the floor with one leg extended and the other leg bent, with the sole of your foot resting against your inner thigh.
- Reach towards your extended leg, keeping your back straight and your chest lifted.
- Hold for 15-30 seconds, and then switch sides.
2. Side Stretch
This stretch targets the sides of your torso, helping to relieve tightness and discomfort in your back and ribs.
- Stand with your feet hip-width apart and your arms at your sides.
- Reach your right arm overhead and gently lean to your left, feeling a stretch along the right side of your body.
- Hold for 15-30 seconds, and then switch sides.
3. Hip Flexor Stretch
Stretching the hip flexors can help alleviate tightness and discomfort in the hips and lower back.
- Stand in a lunge position with your right foot forward and your left foot back, both feet flat on the floor.
- Bend your right knee, keeping your left leg straight and your left heel on the ground.
- Place your hands on your right thigh for support, and gently lean forward until you feel a stretch in your left hip flexor.
- Hold for 15-30 seconds, and then switch sides.
