The intense physical activity involved in karate and other forms of martial arts can be especially tough for beginners to cope with. Japan Karate-Do Cincinnati in West Chester, OH, will guide you through some stretching exercises that help your body prepare for the physically demanding karate lessons you will encounter.

3 Essential Stretching Exercises For Karate Beginners

1. Hamstring Stretch While Standing

Stretching your hamstring not only helps strengthen your back, but it also reinforces your muscles to prevent injuries during karate practice. A simple way of doing a hamstring stretch is to find an elevation that stays a little below your hip. Start by resting one foot on top of the raised spot and other firmly on the ground. Position the knee of your elevated leg in an upward direction. Once you get the placement right, move forward towards the bent knee to perform a stretch. You can begin with a set of 10 lunges for each leg, and gradually increase them as your body builds tolerance.

2. Inner Thigh Stretch

The only prop you need for this workout is a wall to determine your placement and threshold level. The exercise involves facing the wall and stretching your legs as far apart as possible. This allows your thigh muscles to loosen up and become flexible enough to execute high kicks during a karate class. Continue to slide your legs while moving closer to the wall, and go as far as you can. How close you are to the wall at the end of the stretch will determine your body’s resistance level.

 3. Leg Stretch While Sitting

This technique requires you to sit on the floor and stretch one leg forward while keeping the other folded. Let the foot of your stretched leg face upward, and try to reach it with your hands. According to Japan Karate-Do Cincinnati, the routine is particularly beneficial in addressing tightened back muscles, opening them up for greater flexibility. It may be hard to completely stretch out your hands and reach your feet at first, but you will gradually get there with practice.

Add strength to your karate sessions by prepping your body with these incredibly effective stretching exercises. To learn more about these workouts and their impact on your martial arts skills, call Japan Karate-Do Cincinnati at (513) 860-4386. You can also visit the center’s website to learn more about their extensive schedule of karate lessons. Like their Facebook page to stay updated about their upcoming events and classes.