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Summary

Did you long ago learn to fear and dread stretching because of overbearing P.E. teachers who forced you to touch your toes? It doesn't have to be that way anymore. Stretching is a powerful tool that can bring you new ease of movement, an increase in your physical capabilities, and deep composure that requires you to do nothing more than breathe. You can always have access to it-and best of all, it's free! Stretching for Dummies shows you that stretching is actually easy to do-and reveals how you can reap the amazing benefits of stretching anywhere, anytime. It explains in simple terms how you can stand taller, look thinner, keep stress from getting the best of you, keep your muscles from feeling achy, and nip injuries in the bud. You'll discover: The why's, where's, when's, and how's of letting loose and snapping back How to keep from hurting yourself The benefits of stretching with a partner How to target specific areas: such as head, shoulders, knees, and toes The art of breathing correctly How to use stretching to sooth lower back pain Stretches to start and end your day right Stretches you can do at your desk Stretches for various stages of life-including stretches for kids and seniors This easy-to-use reference also includes a list of ten surprising around-the house stretching accessories, along with ten common aches and pain that stretching can help. Regardless of how old or young you are, Stretching for Dummies will introduce you to a kinder and gentler form of flexibility that will reduce that nagging tension and tenderness in your muscles and truly make you feel good all over.

Introduction
The Why's, Where's, When's, and How's of Letting Loose and Snapping Back
Here a Stretch, There a Stretch, Everywhere a Stretch, Stretch
Preparing for a More Flexible You
Testing Your Flexibility to Establish Your Stretching Routine
Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes: Targeting Specific Areas
Taking It from the Top: Upper Body Stretches
Centering on the Core: Stretches for Your Middle
Soothing Your Lower Back without Paying for a Massage
From Your Knickers to Your Kickers: Stretches for your Bottom Half
Total -Body Stretch Routines
From the Daily Grind to Ways to Unwind: Routines to Fit Your Life and Needs
When the Cock Crows and the Evening Wind Blows: AM/PM Stretch Routines
Stretching Out the Workday: Stretches for Work and for the Road
Basic Warm-Up and Cool-Down Stretch Routines
My Favorite Stretches for Specific Sports
Getting Limber As You Live: Stretches for Various Life Stages
What to Stretch When You're Expecting . . . and After
Family Fun: Kid-Friendly Stretches
Seventh Inning Stretch: Special Stuff for Seniors
The Part of Tens
Ten Common Aches and Pains and Stretches that Can Help
Ten Surprising Around-the-House Stretching Accessories
Index
Table of Contents provided by Publisher. All Rights Reserved.

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