This article was co-authored by Michele Dolan. Michele Dolan is a BCRPA certified Personal Trainer in British Columbia. She has been a personal trainer and fitness instructor since 2002. This article has been viewed 109,560 times.

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Before stretching like a contortionist, start by doing some warm-up cardio exercises like a short walk or run, to get your blood flowing to your muscles. Once you’re warmed up, try the cobra bend, which is a great beginner stretch for your back. Lie on your back and place your hands on the floor at about the same width apart as your shoulders, keeping them just under your shoulders. Push the top half of your body off the floor, while keeping your legs and hips on the ground. Then stretch your torso upward, and straighten your arms at the same time, stretching as far as is comfortable for you. Repeat this pose several times until you’re comfortable doing it, before moving onto more advanced stretches. For more tips, including doing the camel stretch and a standing back bend, keep reading!