The Sophisticated Exerciser

January 12, 2026

Let’s face it, stretching often gets poo-pooed. It is believed to be of lesser importance than strength and cardio. Many people believe stretching is a “nice little self-care thing to do” and that’s it.  Well, here’s the real deal – discard, underestimate, and belittle stretching at your own peril.  

Cardio, strength and stretch are of equal importance. It’s a three-way tie, always has been, always will be. Every body needs a healthy mix of all three. The movement modalities that have withstood the test of time, like yoga, illustrate this perfectly. Here are the top five reasons why stretching matters: 

#1 Stretching is grounding, which gets us present in our body and in the here & now.

#2 Stretching is soothing to the nervous system. It, very quickly (faster than a cocktail!), pulls us out of fight or flight.

#3 Stretching promotes bigger and better ranges of motion, which will makes us more functional, capable and injury-resistant. 

#4 Stretching is transforming. It can shape the silhouette, create the illusion of length, and fine-tune alignment.

#5 Stretching is detoxifying because it boosts circulation and moves the lymph.

We have a slew of stretching specific workouts on Let’s Move!
WALL STRETCH
WALK & STRETCH
STANDING STRETCH
SUNSET STRETCH
SUNRISE STRETCH
STRETCH 360
STRENGTHEN, LENGTHEN & BREATHE
ZEN STRETCH
STRETCH SCULPT

When I’m at a gym and see someone taking the time to thoroughly stretch out their body, I’m impressed. I consider them a sophisticated exerciser.

A forward fold, a spine twist, a knee hug, a cobra pose….these are very do-able stretches that require no equipment and very little space. They can be done in street clothing and they are ultra nourishing to body and mind. It’s 2026, and from where I’m standing, it looks like the world needs stretch more than ever, so let’s stretch – the time has come to value it.

Let’s Move!