Being able to do the splits seems to be the ultimate in flexibility. A lot of people aspire to do them, but sadly, many cannot.
Truthfully, it is one of those things that is much better accomplished when really young. The body is more limber and can easily contort itself into different shapes.
Weight also plays a role in how easy it will be do splits, and then of course, once you get down there, can you get back up again?
Over the years various conditions such as arthritis, joint injuries, bursitis, and surgeries will also hamper your efforts to do the splits.
Nevertheless, if you are so inclined, and really want to give them a go, we believe that stretching for easier splits is the key to your challenge.
Everyone knows what splits are but in case you are not sure… they are simply separating your legs out flat until your pelvic area touches the ground. Ballet dancers, gymnasts and cheerleaders are experts at this feat.
You can do front splits and side splits on the floor. You can do them with your legs in the air while lying on your back, and of course, you can look like you are flying through space while you are dancing.
How To Stretch For Splits Beginners
We do not recommend trying to do splits from a cold position. In other words, if you have never done the splits before, or you haven’t done them in along time, you absolutely need stretching out before attempting any split formation.
While it might seem fun to see if you can do them, there is a lot that can go wrong, and cause you immeasurable pain or damage. A stiff body should not be forced into such a flexible position.
On the other hand, if you focus on stretching for easier splits, then once you achieve your goal, there are many associated benefits, not just the reward of being able to do them. They help with weight-loss regimens, and also make the body stronger.
In addition, being able to correctly do the splits realigns the body, creating an environment for improved balance, and the prevention of injuries.
A stiff body has a hard time working even to do the simplest of chores. Common everyday events such as walking, bending and sitting become onerous tasks making life miserable.
Consequently, stretching will go a long way to improve not only your splits, but also your everyday range of motion.
If you are new to a stretching routine, which we assume you must be if you are reading how to stretch for splits beginners, then at this point it is important to understand that a warm up is necessary before beginning your routine.
The blood needs to start flowing and the body literally needs to warm itself up and prepare for the stretches. Five to ten minutes of light jogging on the spot or a couple yoga poses will do the trick.
In order to do the splits, your body needs to be open to the challenge. Flexibility and strength are key elements.
The hips are in a straight position, while hamstrings are stretched out for elongation of the legs. The Runner’s Lunge and Deep Side Lunge can really help to limber up and strengthen the muscles.
How Many Times A Week Should You Stretch For Splits?
Without going overboard and stretching for hours of the day, it does help to reach your goal by having a consistent, regular routine.
Beginners are best starting with three times per week. As you become more comfortable and feel like the stretches are too easy, you add elements to make them harder.
One of the ways to achieve increased stamina is to add more repetitions to each stretch. You can also start doing them on a daily basis.
But, don’t force your body to comply. Stretching should be gentle and should not hurt. It is a challenge, but is not supposed to cause injury.
This is not a race, so even if you give yourself a time frame of stretching for easier splits, there is no shame in not making that deadline.
Remember, the end goal is not the time spent, but rather, being able to do the front or side splits. Whatever length of time it takes your body to perform, that is completely fine, and more importantly, safer for you.
Stretches For Splits and High Kicks
Not only do many individuals wish to do the splits, but they would like to be able to kick higher, too.
To be honest, if you do the stretching for easier splits, you are going to be able to do some impressive high kicks, as well.
Both formations require the same muscles and the same flexibility. So whether you start stretching to reach one goal or the other, it is most likely you will be able to do both. Maybe, you’ll even try some donkey kicks!
12 Benefits of Stretching For Easier Splits
Not every can do the splits and high kicks. The truth is not all bodies are made for such contortions. But, there is no reason why you shouldn’t try out the stretches for splits in a month, as long you don’t overdo it.
You might not reach the splits that fast, yet you will have done something very rewarding for yourself. You will have improved your health, and your mental well-being.
Let’s take a look at those twelve benefits of which you can be proud when the 30-day challenge is up and you take stock of your accomplishments.
#1 Excellent Posture
You probably haven’t had good posture for most of your adult life. And it’s not always your own fault because jobs and chores force us to do things a specific way.
Amazingly, though, consistent stretching will give you back your good posture. Your body will be aligned and your spine stands straighter.
#2 Look Taller
As all your muscles stretch out, and you stand up properly, you will find that people compliment you on being taller. In fact, you really do increase your height with stretching for easier splits. Since the muscles are no longer contracted, and your back is straight, you will add inches to your height.
#3 Weight Loss
If you a have a few extra pounds you have meaning to work on or you are overweight, stretching is a wonderful way to help with your weight-loss goals.
By adding a consistent program to your nutritious food diet, you can exercise those calories and fat right off your body.
#4 Tone Up
You”ll be shocked at how much more sleek your body looks. Just take a quick look at your silhouette in the mirror.
The stretching will firm up all that loose flab. It also helps to define your body, so you actually see your nice curves.
#5 Strengthens
By strengthening the cartilage, muscles and joints, you make your body much stronger as a whole. At the same time, it becomes less susceptible to injury.
Stronger knees and hips, for example, mean that you are less frail and have greater range of mobility.
#6 Removes Stiffness
Do you hate the feeling of getting out of bed every morning feeling stiff as a board? Of course, some of it goes away from taking a hot shower, but later in the day, the feeling is back again.
Your body seems rickety, and simple sitting and standing becomes a chore. Try getting in and out of your car and see what happens?
But, you won’t have to worry about the groaning anymore because once you have done a month of stretching, you are going to feel better. The stiffness will transform into nice fluid painless movements.
#7 Relieves Pain
One of the biggest benefits of stretching for easier splits is the relief of pain. Wherever your body aches, if you have stretched out the area on a regular basis, you will notice a difference.
Two things happen to achieve this feeling of euphoria.
- First, the stretching is an exercise which releases endorphins, which in turn make you feel good.
- Second, the muscles are coaxed out of their contracted position, which again feels much more comfortable.
#8 Better Balance
Along with the improved posture, stretching enhances your stabilization. The added strength provides a less wobbly feel, so you can stand assured and confident.
#9 Overall Flexibility
Complete range of motion is essential for your body to work properly and for you to feel good.
You don’t want to be hampered in what you can do especially if poor movement limits your daily activities or fun hobbies. You want to play with your pets and children, not sit and watch them.
#10 Stress Reducer
One of the added bonuses of stretching for easier splits is feeling like a weight has been removed from your shoulders. It has been proven that even short bursts of activity can reduce the stress felt from high-pressure situations.
#11 Clearer Thinking
Stretching is a phenomenal way to clear the cobwebs out of your head. It reduces that awful brain fog that many people speak about.
#12 Contentment
Stretching helps your psyche in many ways. But basically, you just feel better about yourself.
When some of the other problems with your body lead to recovery, then you feel ecstatic that you have accomplished something real.
Elation is a powerful emotion and should not be underestimated when talking about healthy benefits!
Final Thoughts on Stretching for Easier Splits
Indeed, stretching for easier splits is the safest way to improve your splits, and, it also prepares your body if you are a beginner and want to learn to do the splits.
To experience all the added benefits that stretching can provide, get your routine planned out, and start now.
