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Get Fit While Standing In Line

Standing Stretches You Can Do Anywhere

You can stretch anywhere. Whether standing in line, waiting for the bus or watching a youth soccer game, you can get in some quality flexibility training. This set of standing stretches is a great beginner program. The stretches themselves are basic and easy to follow, wherever or whenever you find yourself on your feet. Remember to warm up first and never stretch to the point of pain. Know your body's limits. Hold each stretch for 10-15 seconds, repeating each two or three times, depending on how you feel.

Neck: 
Relax your neck and shoulders. Allow your head to stretch to the right side by lowering your right ear toward your right shoulder. Feel the stretch along the left side of your neck. Repeat for the other side. 


Bicep stretch: 
Stand tall, feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent. Hold your arms out to the side parallel with the ground and the palms of the hand facing forward. Rotate the hands so the palms face to the rear. Stretch the arms back as far as possible, squeezing the bicep as you stretch. 


Lower-shoulder stretch: 
Stand tall, feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent. Place your right arm, parallel with the ground, across the front of your chest. Bend the left arm up and use the left forearm to ease the right arm closer to your chest. You will feel the stretch in the tricep and shoulder. Repeat with the other arm. 


Chest stretch: 
Stand tall, feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent. Raise your arms out to the side, parallel with the ground, and the palms of the hands facing upward. Stretch the arms back, squeezing your shoulder blades together. 


Calf stretch: 
Stand tall with one leg in front of the other, either unassisted with hands resting on the forward leg or pressing against a wall at shoulder height. Ease your back leg further away from the front leg, keeping it straight (not locked) and press the heel firmly into the floor. Keep your hips facing forward and the rear leg and spine in a straight line. You will feel the stretch in the calf of the rear leg. Repeat with the other leg. 
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About The Author

Jen Mueller
Jen received her master's in health promotion and education from the University of Cincinnati. As a certified personal trainer, she also holds a certification in prenatal and postpartum exercise. Jen has two children and enjoys running marathons.

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