Answers from Expert: Michelle Cederberg

Flexibility, simply defined, is the absolute range of movement in a joint or series of joints. To improve your overall flexibility you have to make a plan to stretch all the major muscles on a regular basis. If you are simply inflexible in certain areas, such as your hamstrings for example (which would explain why you can barely touch your toes), then you might choose to focus your efforts on exercises that stretch the back of your upper legs. I'm a big advocate for regular attendance at yoga classes. A 60 or 90 minute class, even once per week, will begin to improve your flexibility. If you're exceptionally tight in your muscles you may choose to go more often. Another way to improve flexibility (and reduce the risk of injury) is to make sure you stretch after every workout. Since it sounds like you're starting from ground zero, I recommend that you map out three times per week when you can devote at least a half hour to stretching. Start with a six to 10 minute cardiovascular warm-up (a short walk, or a bike ride), then choose five or six stretches that will isolate hamstrings, quadriceps, hips, back, and chest. Hold each stretch for 20-30 seconds and repeat them two times. You can find stretch ideas online or purchase a book of stretches and if you decide to try a yoga class, your teacher will demonstrate every posture. Good luck! Michelle