Pickleball is a fun and exciting sport that requires a combination of physical fitness and skill. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, pregame stretches are essential to help prevent injuries and prepare your body for the game. In this blog, we'll be discussing five pregame stretches that you can use to prepare for your next pickleball match.
- Shoulder Stretch
The shoulder stretch is an essential pregame stretch that helps to loosen up the muscles in your shoulders and upper back. To do this stretch, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and your arms by your sides. Lift your right arm over your head and place your hand on your left shoulder blade. Use your left hand to gently pull your right elbow towards your left shoulder. Hold the stretch for 10-15 seconds and repeat on the other side.
- Quad Stretch
The quad stretch is another important pregame stretch that targets the muscles in your quadriceps. To do this stretch, stand with your feet hip-width apart and your hands on your hips. Lift your right foot towards your buttocks and hold on to your ankle with your right hand. Use your left hand to steady yourself if needed. Hold the stretch for 10-15 seconds and repeat on the other side.
- Hamstring Stretch
The hamstring stretch targets the muscles in the back of your thigh and can help prevent injuries to the lower back and knees. To do this stretch, sit on the ground with your legs straight out in front of you. Reach forward and try to touch your toes with your fingertips. If you can't reach your toes, reach as far as you can and hold the stretch for 10-15 seconds.
- Calf Stretch
The calf stretch targets the muscles in the back of your lower leg and can help prevent injuries to the Achilles tendon. To do this stretch, stand facing a wall with your hands on the wall at shoulder height. Place your right foot behind your left foot and press your right heel into the ground. Hold the stretch for 10-15 seconds and repeat on the other side.
- Wrist Stretch
The wrist stretch targets the muscles in your forearms and can help prevent injuries to the wrist and elbow. To do this stretch, extend your right arm in front of you with your palm facing down. Use your left hand to gently push your right hand down towards the ground. Hold the stretch for 10-15 seconds and repeat on the other side.
In conclusion, pregame stretches are an essential part of any pickleball warm-up routine. By incorporating these five stretches into your warm-up routine, you can help prevent injuries and prepare your body for a fun and successful game. Remember to always listen to your body and stop any stretch if you feel pain or discomfort. With these stretches, you'll be ready to play your best game of pickleball!
By Allie Mroczkowski, GAMMA Marketing Coordinator
