STRETCH yourself slimmer

Boost flexibility and feel leaner with this simple but effective routine

Barely exercised over the summer? Struggling with stiffness? It doesn’t matter how tight your muscles are, adding a few stretches to your day will help you feel more flexible – and, as a result, trimmer. ‘You’ll wake up your muscles and challenge them to become firmer,’ says our fitness expert, Annie Deadman. The meditative side of a session may also inspire you to eat more consciously.

It’s never too late to start. ‘The more you do it, the “bendier” you’ll get,’ says Annie.

Ready to roll out your exercise mat? Try Annie’s easy stretches – they’ll only take minutes to do.

Get the body benefits

MAINTAIN MOBILITY

‘As we age, our bodies make less collagen, and oestrogen levels drop, giving us less elasticity in tendons and ligaments,’ says Annie. ‘Stretching helps you remain mobile and also prevents injury and pain.’

IMPROVE POSTURE

Daily stretching will counter a sedentary lifestyle, which can lead to slouching and poor posture. ‘You’ll increase core strength and alignment in joints such as the hips and spine, which is crucial as we age,’ says Annie.