Benefits of Stretching

• Healthy stomach muscles provide structural support for the spine, assist in breathing, help to maintain good posture and support and protect vital organs.
  Stretching the muscles in your stomach area before working out helps your muscles respond better, and you'll less likely to be sore afterward.
  
  

Time to Stretch

• There are many different stomach stretching exercises you can perform. As with any new exercises, start slowly and work toward more-advanced movements.
  Start out with a simple abdominal stretch. Lie on your back and extend your arms overhead, your legs should be straight along the floor. Gently arch your lower back to feel a nice stretch in your stomach area. This exercise can be done for as long as you feel comfortable.
  
  Use an exercise ball, and with your feet firmly on the ground, sit on the ball. Slowly lower your body so that your lower back is against the ball. When you feel properly balanced, raise your arms above your head and lean backward. This provides an excellent stretch not only for the stomach, but for the back as well. Stretch two times for at least 15 seconds each, resting for a few moments in between.
  
  Now, target your side abdominal muscles. You will need a pole at least as long as your wingspan. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Place the pole on your shoulders while extending your arms out, wrapping them around the pole. Twist at your hips from side to side, bringing each arm forward. Do this for at least 15 repetitions on each side.
  
  Performing these three exercises will provide a well-rounded stretching of your stomach muscles.