Get Flexible!

J.C. Van Damme in Bloodsport (and awesome turquoise pants)

I have been preaching the importance of being flexible to my students lately. Physically, that is. I mean, improving flexibility is one of the top reasons people start training in the martial arts. So I did a little reflection on my own stretching habits and realized I need to practice what I preach a little better! Now that I am not 18 anymore I can't get away with throwing kicks and flips without warming up and stretching a little. Not only that, but adults lose flexibility a hundred times faster than they gain it (I'm starting to notice that myself!) So I am making it a goal of mine to stretch everday for at least a few minutes every morning and every night. I challenge you to try this for 5 days and see how it affects your life. Here's a little motivation:

Benefits of Flexibility:

* Increased physical performance and reduction of injury risk. How many times have you pulled or strained something? And especially for something rediculous. Remember that time you pulled a hammy reaching for your remote?? Eeesh.. Sit n' Reach often??

* Increase the number of people you'd be able to roundhouse kick in the face (blast you tall people!!!)... only kidding kids. Adults, I used this color because only you can read this and I just want to say that this is a GREAT benefit. Pictured below: Flexible Cat.

* Get taller (or at least appear to be). This one alone motivates me. For years I have been spiking my hair to give me an extra few inches. Maybe stretching will give me one more?? Eh? Don't judge me.

* Reduced joint pain (knees,ankles) and lower back pain. I can attest to this: Two years ago I strained my back and it took FOREVER to get better. If my back had been more flexible (BRIDGES!).. it probably would'nt have been the bane of my existance for months and months.

* You won't be "That guy" or less commonly (but equally embarrassing) "That girl" that doesn't participate in a rousing game of Nintendo Wii due to a nagging muscle strain. If this is you, stop reading and stretch RIGHT NOW.

There are many more reasons but I think you get the point. So all I ask is 5 days of stretching. I bet you it will make you feel better and happier and a few minutes a day is well worth it. I will report back in 5 days to track my progress. For those of you that don't know how to stretch (you must be homeschooled) here is an online guide to stretching complete with pictures: http://www.mydr.com.au/sports-fitness/stretching-an-illustrated-guide

Oh, and while you're at it... feel free to get flexible in your life too! I'll make this quick. The dictionary says: "Blah blah blah.... "Flexible" : characterized by a ready capability to adapt to new, different, or changing requirements. In these uncertain times, you have to be ready for anything. Don't let unexpected change ruin your day or attitude. Expect change. Be ready for it.

Kimchi (Korean for... Spicy fermented cabbage)