Stretches for Long Car Rides

Summer is in full swing, and that means it’s a great time of year to pack your bags, grab your keys, and hit the road with your friends and family. But if you want to avoid back pain while driving cross-country, you’ll need to build some time into your itinerary to take a break. These stretches for long car rides can help you prepare for and recover from a road trip.

Stretches for Long Car Rides to Try This Summer

Toe Touches

Toe touches, which consist of bending straight down and trying to touch your toes, are as simple as stretches get. But these stretches are incredibly effective to help prepare for long car rides because they engage your core, lower back, and hamstrings. Focusing on strengthening and stretching these areas will prepare you for a road trip and help your body finish strong after a break.

Upper Back Stretches

If you’re going to be in the car for a long period of time, your upper back can get stiff quickly. You can lean forward, place your hands on the dash or the seat in front of you, and stretch your upper back to keep yourself limber and loose. You’ll want to avoid doing this stretch if you’re driving since it will take your attention off the road, but you can make it part of your stretching routine when you take a break.

Standing Cat-Cow Stretch

The cat-cow stretch would be one of the best stretches for long car rides were it not for the fact that you need to get on your hands and knees. Or do you? There’s a standing variation of the cat-cow that’s great for relieving back pain from driving—just stand with your feet at shoulder width and knees slightly bent. Place your hands on your knees and alter your spinal position as you breathe the same as you would by doing this traditional stretch. After a few reps, you’ll feel prepared for the rest of your road trip.

Avoid Back Pain from Driving in Rochelle, IL

Road trips can be a wonderful part of your summer tradition—but back pain from driving doesn’t have to be part of the formula. To prepare for your summer adventure, schedule an appointment at Livingston County Chiropractic in Rochelle, IL. We’ll get you all set up for success with chiropractic care, natural supplements, and more.

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