Hasebe K, Okubo Y, Kaneoka K, Takada K, Suzuki D, Sairyo K. The effect of dynamic stretching on hamstrings flexibility with respect to the spino-pelvic rhythm. J Med Invest. 2016;63(1-2):85-90. doi: 10.2152/jmi.63.85 Boukabache, Abderrahmane, Stephen J. Preece, and Nathan Brookes. Prolonged sitting and physical inactivity are associated with limited hip extension: a cross-sectional study. Musculoskeletal Science and Practice 2021; 51:102282 doi: 10.1016/j.msksp.2020.102282

But if your pain comes after a long day of sitting in an uncomfortable chair or after going too hard on housework or yardwork, some light exercise and stretching may be just what you need. As you’re walking, if you notice discomfort, don’t just plow through. Stop and take a deep breath. Think about trying to relax your muscles,” Dr. Kopasakis advises. “Sometimes, people don’t realize how tightly they’re holding their body — how much they’re guarding — until they take that deep breath and really make an effort to relax. And then, they may realize, ‘ OK, yeah, I was holding a lot of tension there. And now I have some new space to move in.’” When to seek professional adviceThe machine is straightforward and comes with a full user guide. The Inline traction control system makes it suitable for those with mobility issues, offering your body support. It also helps strengthen your core generally to improve posture. You can increase or decrease the tension of this stretch by grabbing the towel closer to or farther away from your feet. Using both hands, grab hold of your right lower leg and interlace your fingers, or clasp your wrists just under the knee. It features a stainless steel and chrome frame which is exceptionally sturdy. It can support much heavier weights than alternatives but is still comfortable with 2.5-inch memory foam pillow cushioning. Plus there's a removable lumbar support pillow Slowly start to bend and straighten your knees. Listen to your body and work within your limits here.

The Nitrofit Limber Pro is large but still small enough to be stored in the home comfortably. The frame is made from steel and can handle weights up to 250 pounds. There's also an additional support bar that will allow it to support loads up to 300 pounds. The whole machine is fully adjustable with 7 different seating positions and integrated wheels. Be mindful of your body’s limits and don’t push your body to do too much. Listen to your body and do what feels best for you in each moment. Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members!And while it’s easy to stop stretching or exercising when you notice tension, walking isn’t something you can necessarily stop doing the second you feel uncomfortable.

This exercise both strengthens and stretches all the right posture muscles. And the best thing is that it’s easy to do it from anywhere – even in your office.

It has comfortable padding to give you a firm, but comfortable stretch and the ergonomic shape conforms to your spine to help stretch it out. For best results, you should look to use it twice daily for around 5 minutes. Moreira-Silva I, Teixeira PM, Santos R, Abreu S, Moreira C, Mota J. The Effects of Workplace Physical Activity Programs on Musculoskeletal Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Workplace Health Saf. 2016 May;64(5):210-22. doi: 10.1177/2165079916629688 This can make you want to avoid moving. That leads to stiffness, which creates more pain. It’s a vicious cycle. Be especially gentle and cautious if you have any type of injury or health concern. It’s best to talk with a doctor first before starting any new types of exercise, especially if a recent injury may be the cause of your pain.