Traditionally the calves are stretched from the standing position by leaning against a supportive wall, fence, etc. The main problem is the gastrocnemius (calf) muscle, which is stabilizing the knee and ankle joints. When leaning forward the calf muscle is performing a lengthening contraction to stabilize both joints and is not a relaxed muscle. The best stretching position for a relaxed calf is performed in a sitting position. Place a rope or strap around the ball of the foot.

The hamstrings are best stretched when incorporating the quadriceps. Use of a rope or strap is helpful. The distal end (insertion) of the hamstrings should be stretched before the proximal (origin) end. The "Bent Knee Hamstring Stretch" is used to stretch the distal attachment. To become more specific the lower leg is first rotated inward to stretch the distal inner hamstrings. Rotate the lower leg outward for the distal outer hamstrings.

A safe guideline for the time to hold a static stretch is 15 to 30 seconds. In order to increase flexibility you should take a stretch until you feel tension (but not pain) in the muscle and then hold this position until you feel the tension release (typically longer than 30 seconds). Flexibility is an important part of your overall health and fitness. When included in a cool down stretching aids in recovery by helping the body flush lactic acid and other waste products from the muscles.

One 15-30-second stretch per muscle group is sufficient for most people, but some exercisers require longer stretches as well as more repetitions.

Each stretching exercise should be maintained by the force within the body, no outside forces should contribute to your stretches. Your stretches can be done at any time of the day but offer the most benefit directly after weight training when the muscles are warm. Correct stretching should feel comfortable with absolutely no pain. Pain should be avoided at all times during stretches.

Stretching is the best way to promote and maintain flexibility. As we age, flexibility may decrease due to habitual ways of holding and lack of use. The tendons (which connect muscles to bone) are not being used through the full range of motion and begin to tighten. This reduces flexibility, restricts movement, and can result in muscle imbalance. A regular program of stretching can counteract this, resulting in increased suppleness and improved coordination.

First, engaging in light activity such as walking, stationary cycling for 5-10 minutes prior to stretching will assist in warming up your muscles and will make stretching easier and more beneficial. Stretches should be held for 10-30 seconds, and do at least three sets. You may have to go through some slight discomfort to attain flexibility, but stretching should NOT be painful.

Stretch marks are scars that are caused when the skin is over-stretched during periods of rapid weight-gain such as adolescence and pregnancy. The middle layer of the skin, known as the dermis, contains elastic fibers of tissue that can stretch to a certain point - beyond which they lose their elasticity and break down. In these areas a type of scar tissue forms to strengthen the “weakened” area.

I noticed that you used to eat a lot of meatless products. Were you a vegetarian? [ Updated January 27, 2007 ] After the end of 2003, your physique didn't seem to change very much for about a year. I thought you wanted to add some muscle? What happened? [ Updated January 27, 2007 ] People who work out and lift weights are compensating. You deserved that hernia, and I hope you have a heart attack next. [ Updated January 27, 2007 ]

The first stretch of Interstate opened under the 1944 Congress act was I-70 in Kansas, which opened in 1957. More information is at http://www.tfhrc.gov/pubrds/summer96/p96su18.htm 2000-08-17 15:29:33

Eastern UT, on I-70 between Green River and Salina (106 miles, formerly 110 miles) -- see http://members.aol.com/utahhwys/rte070.htm . See Question 3.6.2 for the longest distance between freeway exits. Jul 18, 2006

A compilation of Interstate (and other) tunnels and their locations is at http://groups.google.com/group/misc.transport.road/browse_frm/thread/7922cbdaff588381 Feb 1, 2005 mentioned in the intro to this section, individual Interstates may be found in only one state. Most 3di's are single-state; the single state 2di's are I-4 (FL), I-12 (LA), I-16 (GA), I-17 (AZ), I-19 (AZ), I-27 (TX), I-37 (TX), I-43 (WI), I-45 (TX), I-49 (LA), I-73 (NC - see 6.3.

It will stretch (a little), but not as much or as quickly as leather. PVC is basically plastic-coated fabric, and is washable, as well as relatively inexpensive.

Many patients opt for plastic surgery, but we recommend you wait until you reach your ideal body weight before any plastic surgery.

A sheet can be stretched to a strain of approximately 500 microstrain (micrometers per meter) in regular use. Higher surface strains can be achieved, but the statistics of survival get worse. Proceed with caution.

Many leathers will have a little give to them with wear, but it's not a good idea to count on them stretching a lot to get a comfortable fit.

Everyone is going to see different results, depending on the severity of their stretch marks. However, four to six weeks is usually a good approximation. The key is to be consistent and use a minimum of twice per day.