Cricket Stretching Routine

A cricket stretching routine, in combination with the correct cricket training, helps players to deliver optimal performances during long matches.

Like athletics, cricket requires a proper strength, conditioning and stretching program. By diligently following a cricket stretching routine, players can improve their sporting ability and avoid the various injuries associated with the game.

Muscles used in Cricket
Batting, bowling and fielding are the three main activities in cricket. Depending on the activity, various different upper and lower body structures are involved. The head, neck and cervical spine muscles bear a lot of stress in cricket.

In batting, the upper limb structures, such as the phalanges and metacarpal bones play a significant role.
Bowling places a great deal of stress on the core muscles; particularly the lower back muscles and hips. Bowling also relies heavily on the rotator cuff muscles of the shoulder.
For players taking care of the field, a cricket stretching routine should particularly focus on the muscles needed for throwing. These include the pectoral muscles, the rotator cuff muscles of the shoulder, and the forearm muscles.
Since a lot of running is involved for all cricket players, significant focus on the hamstring, quadriceps and calf muscles must be included in cricket training.

The Benefits of a Cricket Stretching Routine
The following are some of the benefits of a cricket stretching routine:

An appropriate stretching routine before a match, in combination with dynamic warm-up movements, increases the chance of optimal performance in long matches.
A regular cricket stretching routine makes it possible for fielders to provide the explosive bursts that are required to reach for a catch or to stop the ball.
A regular cricket stretching routine also helps to safeguard players against common sports injuries like tendonitis and muscle strains.

Despite the numerous benefits, it is important to bear in mind that stretching can have detrimental effects when done incorrectly. Improperly done stretches can over time cause permanent damage to ligaments and joint. When performing the stretching routine below, be sure to warm up first and if any of the exercises cause pain or severe discomfort, discontinue immediately. Review our article on the rules for safe stretching for more information.

Watch the Cricket Stretching Routine
Click on the play button below to watch the 10 minute cricket stretching routine video.

Get more Stretching Exercises here...
Looking at photos and watching videos on your computer is fine, but to really take advantage of all the stretching exercises on offer, grab a copy of the updated 2011 edition of the Stretching Handbook and accompanying DVD.

The exercises and recommendations on this page are just a small sample of the many stretching exercises presented in the Handbook and on the DVD. Together, they include 135 clear photographs and 44 video demonstrations of unique stretching exercises for every major muscle group in your body.

The DVD also included 3 customized stretching routines (8 minutes each) for the Upper Body; the Lower Body; and the Neck, Back & Core, plus a bonus DVD-ROM feature that allows you to print out over 80 stretching routines for 22 sports and 19 different muscle groups.

The Handbook and DVD will show you, step-by-step, how to perform each stretch correctly. Plus, you'll also learn the 7 critical rules for safe stretching; the benefits of flexibility; and how to stretch properly. Check out the Stretching Handbook & DVD for yourself.

About the Author: Brad is often referred to as the Stretch Coach and has even been called the Stretching Guru. Magazines such as Runners World, Bicycling, Triathlete, Swimming & Fitness, and Triathlon Sports have all featured his work. Amazon has listed his books on five Best-Seller lists. Google cites over 100,000 references to him and his work on the internet. And satisfied customers from 42 countries have sent 100's of testimonials. If you want to know about stretching and flexibility, Brad Walker is the go-to-guy.

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