Stretching is good for everybody, not just elite athletes, the Mayo Clinic in the US reports.

• Increased flexibility: Lifting packages, bending to tie your shoes or hurrying to catch a bus become easier.

• Improved joint motion: Better balance helps keep you mobile and less prone to falls, especially as you age.

• Circulation booster: Stretching increases blood flow to the muscles, which can aid recovery from muscle injuries.

• Stress relief: Stretching relaxes tense muscles.

Do the perfect stretch
Lower back feeling tight? Here’s how to flex those muscles:

Step 1: Sitting in a chair or on the floor, facing forward, cross your right leg over your left.

Step 2: Put your left hand on your right knee. Gently pull towards your right side, slowly turning your head and shoulders to the right. Keep turning until you see the wall behind your right shoulder. Don’t force it – go slowly until you feel a gentle stretch in your back. Hold for eight to 10 seconds.

Step 3: Relax and repeat on the other side.

 
Gently does it
Don’t overdo it. Stretching should feel good, not painful.