Use this stretch before sport (to improve athletic performance, range of motion and injury risk), and after sport (to reduce muscle soreness, increase flexibility and enhance recovery).
Instructions
Sit on the floor with your legs stretched out in front of you
Lift your arms, bend your elbows and and place your hands on your shoulder blades
Curl forwards, and reach your elbows as far along your legs as you can
Hold for at least 10 deep breaths
Sit up with your body, then lower your arms
Watch Points
Legs straight
Shoulders pulled down and back
Deep breaths (not holding your breath)
Modifications
More Challenging
Multi-Sensory
Ball Skills
Fine Motor
Complete this stretch with one leg bent (with the knee pointed out to the side).
Lean forwards at the pelvis to bring your chest towards the straight leg.
Seated:
Lift your feet onto a footrest or sturdy chair in front of you. Straighten your legs. Put your hands on your shoulders and curl your body forwards.
While doing the Armadillo Curl, flex your feet (pull your toes towards you)
Armadillo tongues are long and sticky – perfect for pulling ants and termites out from their underground tunnels.
Poke out your tongue, pretending to slurp up ants like an armadillo!