When it Comes to Stretching: Tug McGraw's Mixed Nutts are Unique Cheetahs Improving their Stats

"Why should I stretch? Does a cheetah stretch before it chases its prey?" -Ken Griffey Jr.

Physical health, well-being and fall reduction are all components that help support aging in place-Important contributions for independence and autonomy in aging. How can stretching improve your physical health stats?

Photo: The Nutts range in ages from 45 to 95 years young. Ann Yates, Adapted Physical Education Specialist warming-up the Tug McGraw Foundation's Mixed Nutts on Borman Field at the Veterans Home of California, Yountville.

Mixed Nutts Club Improving their Physical Health Stats

Incorporating stretch routines into the Mixed Nutts practices/games gives opportunity to share education around the benefits and the important role it plays in their physical health as they age.

Benefits of Stretching for Seniors

• May help improve posture

• Can promote flexibility.

• Reduces pain

• Lowers stress

• Improves mood

• Facilitates social interactions with others

• Supports aging in place

Caring Healthcare “Elderly Stretching Exercises Benefits Health in Numerous Ways” Caring Healthcare, May 2019.

Photo: Adapted Physical Education Specialist, Ann Yates with Tug McGraw board member and Mixed Nutts player, Jim "Jar Head" Treadway stretching before batting practice.

Why Dynamic Stretching Can be Important before Play?

Photo: Ann Yates, Adapted Physical Education Specialist and the Mixed Nutts getting their dynamic stretch on at Borman Field.

According to Harvard Medical School, When you're getting ready to run, ride a bike, play tennis, or do some other activity that requires limber joints and muscles, skip the static stretches like lying on the floor and pulling your knee up to your chest. Instead of tuning you up, these stretches may undercut performance. Dynamic stretches will loosen your joints to improve your range of motion and improve blood flow to tissues throughout your body. This helps your cells get the oxygen and energy they need for any athletic endeavor. Harvard Medical School “Dynamic Stretches” Harvard Health Publishing, June 2020, https://www.health.harvard.edu/dynamic-stretches.

About the Mixed Nutts Softball Program

The Tug McGraw Foundation's Mixed Nutts Softball is a brain and body wellness program for the veteran residents and spouses at the Veterans Home of California, Yountville. Through the game of softball, we aim to improve physical, cognitive, social and spiritual components of health. Quality of life enhancement is our goal for as many residents as possible. Creating sustainable programs around exercise, healthy eating, and socialization in turn creates a community support system to help better achieve one’s wellness goals. All games are played on the historic Borman Field at the Veterans Home of California, Yountville. Click here, to learn more or get involved with the Mixed Nutts

No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician. Always get approval from your medical provider before beginning any type of fitness or exercise regimen, including basic stretching.