How to stretch correctly

Whether the activity is skiing, running, or playing a group sport such as basketball or football, stretching keeps the body flexible. This can cut down on injuries, especially to the knee and ankle. Stretching again after an activity should be part of an injury prevention plan too.

Before any kind of physical activity, including stretching, the body needs to be warmed up with some light exercise. Walking, running in place, or doing jumping jacks for a few minutes will warm up muscles.

Once muscles are warm, they’re ready for these stretches:

• Forward lunge. Kneel on one knee. Place the other leg forward at a right angle (knee right over ankle). Lean forward to feel the stretch in the inner thigh. Hold for 20 to 30 seconds. Switch legs.

• Side lunge. Stand with feet far apart. Bend one leg and lean toward that knee. Hold for 20 to 30 seconds. Bend and lean toward the opposite leg.

• Standing quad (thigh) stretch. Use a wall or chair for support. Raise one foot behind you. Use the hand on the same side of the body to grasp the foot at the ankle and pull it toward the buttocks, stretching the thigh. Keep the knees close and hips forward. Hold for 20 to 30 seconds, then release. Switch legs.

• Seat straddle lotus. Sit down with the soles of the feet together in front of you. Press your knees to the floor. Place the forearms on the inside of the knees. Push down as you lean toward the ground. Lean forward from the hips. Hold for 20 to 30 seconds.

• Side seat straddle. Sit on the floor with legs spread apart. With both hands, hold onto the shin of one leg. Lean forward, chin to knee. Hold for 20 to 30 seconds. Switch legs.

• Seat stretch. Sit with legs straight out in front. Holding shins or ankles, lean forward from the hips. Bring the chin toward the knees. Hold for 20 to 30 seconds.

• Knees to chest. Lying on the floor, bend your knees and bring them to the chest. Rock gently. Hold for 20 to 30 seconds.

After every workout, repeat these same stretches to help the body cool down and increase flexibility while the muscles are still warm.

Tips for success

Follow these tips:

• Don't bounce when stretching. Bouncing in a stretch can cause damage.

• Take it slow. There’s no prize for finishing a stretching routine first. Go slowly to get all the benefits.

• Stay fit year-round. It’s a good idea for your child to keep in shape even during the sport’s off-season. Then they'll be ready for competition when it starts up again.

• Find the appropriate gear for your child to wear. Help reduce injury by using protective equipment that fits correctly, is well-maintained, and is designed specifically for the sport being played.

• Respect an injury. If your child already has a sprain or other injury, check with the pediatrician or sports trainer before they get back into action.