Essential Pickleball Stretch Routine: Mackenzie from StretchLab in Winter Park shared three essential stretches for pickleball players to do before hitting the court. These stretches help improve flexibility, prevent injury, and get players ready for action. Here’s a look at each one.
1. Stretching the Levator for Neck Relief
The first stretch targets the levator muscle in the neck. Start by placing your right hand behind your back. Then, use your left hand to gently pull your head toward your left shoulder, holding it for about 30 seconds. Afterward, repeat the stretch on the other side to ensure both sides of your neck are stretched.
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2. Loosening Up the Rhomboids
The second stretch focuses on the rhomboids in the back, which can get tight from swinging a paddle. Sit in a chair and extend one arm forward, leaning down to stretch the back. Make sure to do this on both sides for an even stretch.
3. Stretching the Piriformis for Lower Back Flexibility
The last stretch targets the piriformis, a muscle located in the lower back. To do this, cross one ankle over the opposite knee and gently push forward, leaning into the stretch. This movement helps relieve tension in the hips and lower back.
By adding these stretches to your warm-up routine, you’ll be better prepared for pickleball and less likely to experience discomfort or injury during play.
News in Brief: Essential Pickleball Stretch Routine
Mackenzie from StretchLab in Winter Park demonstrates three stretches for pickleball players: neck stretches for the levator, back stretches for the rhomboids, and hip stretches for the piriformis. These stretches help with flexibility and injury prevention before a game.
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