This is how you become as flexible as a ballerina in 5 minutes a day
I am a passionate gym girl and for a while now I have really needed a good stretching routine. To be honest; I couldn't even reach my shins with my fingers. In fact; I could barely touch my knees. But stretching can make you as flexible as a rubber band. If I can do it, you can definitely do it even better. These are my daily go-to stretches. Chinese State Circus, if you still have a vacancy open, let me know.
The flamingo Quadricep stretch, thighs
Stand on the ground like a flamingo and hold your ankle with one hand. Push it towards your butt. Make sure to stay standing! Do this on both sides, this way you stretch the quadriceps.
The booty shaker, Seated forward stretch (glutes)
Sit on your butt, making sure your legs are stretched out on the ground in front of you. From your hips, try to reach your toes/ankles with your hands. If you can do this (well done!), try to bring your whole body along. This way you stretch your hamstrings and glutes.
Human pretzel, Child pose, back muscles
Kneel down, making sure your butt is on your heels. Bend your back forward, stretch your arms, and lay your hands flat on the ground in front of you. This pose is often used in yoga and is called the Child pose. Make sure you don't fall asleep during this exercise.
The snake, Cobra stretch (abdominal muscles)
Lie on your stomach on the ground. Place your hands flat on the ground and lift your upper body up. You are now making a sort of arch with your body. Keep your chin straight ahead and your lips pursed. Not only your abdominal muscles, but also the rest of your upper body is being stretched.
The scissors, Throwing shoulder stretch (shoulder muscles)
Stand firmly. Bring your left arm across your body and hold it with your right arm. Gently push your left arm towards you. Do this with both arms.
The exercises are based on stretching the muscle groups you use most often. Not only good if you want to become Hans Klok's assistant and be able to fit yourself into boxes, but also really good for anyone who sits behind that laptop and on the phone all day because if you're not careful, you'll get a hunch.
Image credits: Jadeanna/Instagram
