While going out and getting active in sports can almost always be considered a good thing, there are some downsides to performing certain sports-related activities without regularly stretching and/or evening out your body. For instance, if you play golf, one side of your body will likely be stronger and more flexible than the other side of your body due to your constant golf swing. The side you utilize for your swing will be stronger and, in turn, more flexible. This is also something that happens with tennis players and those who play baseball. So, if you’re someone who feels uneven on your sides due to the sports you play or if you’re just feeling stiff in your sides overall, we’re here today to show you a simple side stretch to open up your sides and help you twist- one that can be done from anywhere at all.
We spoke with Dr. Kenneth Winer, DC, our chiropractor who works on a lien in Canoga Park, CA, and as an avid golfer, he explained that this stretch is a must-do for him in his daily life. Follow along with Dr. Winer in the Instagram video below as he shows you the proper way to perform this stretch.
To follow long with this stretch, here are your simple instructions:
- Find a doorway (It can be any doorway!).
- Stand in the doorway with your legs shoulder-length apart.
- Grab the back of the door jam from the side you are twisting to (in front of yourself) and with your other hand, grab the back of the other side of the door jam behind you.
- Pull gently, leaning into the stretch.
- Hold this for 5-10 seconds.
- Switch and do this on the other side. You will likely notice that one side is stiffer and harder to stretch than the other. That’s natural.
The best part about this stretch is that it can be done from any doorway, so it can basically be done anywhere, in any building, whether at your office or at your home.
Like with any stretching, be sure to be cautious. As Dr. Winer said, do not twist your knees while performing this stretch! As always, don’t push too far into the stretch either. Always use your best judgment. And if you feel any pain while stretching, be sure to reach out to Dr. Winer or any of our doctors who work on a lien basis for help.
