Soothe the pain with this 5 minute sit-up routine

In the first episode of the new series Good stretch, East River Pilates instructor Brian Spencer guides viewers through a stretching routine you’ve probably dreamed of a million times: sit-ups you can do anywhere from the middle seat of a crowded airplane to your office. These stretches work to bind the hips, neck, shoulders and even a small, but always so important, muscle near your buttocks called the anus. If you’re looking to relax in your life, this is its opening episode Good stretch will undoubtedly pay off.

Spencer begins by showing you how to do a modified cat and cow stretch while sitting. This can be a lifesaver if your muscles are extremely tired. It then makes you gently pull your head to stretch your upper trapezius muscle, which can relieve tight shoulders and relieve neck pain.

Spencer then has you cross your legs and lean back to stretch your hips and ankles a bit. When this muscle is irritated, inflamed, stretched or sore, it can press on this large nerve. This often happens when you sit for a while – so this stretch will come in handy when trying to prevent or alleviate any pain.

It’s amazing what Spencer can accomplish in this five-minute stretching routine. You do not need anything for this stretching routine, except maybe airplane neighbors who do not sleep on your shoulder. Tune in and let Spencer be your guide.

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