11/20/2025
5-Minute Pre-Shift Stretch: Prime Your Body for Safety!
Your body is your most important tool! Before starting a physically demanding shift, a quick warm-up can significantly reduce the risk of muscle strains, back pain, and tendonitis.
Focus Area: Hands, Wrists, and Back
These areas are constantly engaged in repetitive tasks, lifting, and pushing. Take 5 minutes to do these 3 simple stretches:
Wrist Flexor/Extensor:
Hold your arm straight out, palm up. Gently pull your fingers down with your opposite hand for a count of 10 (stretching the underside of your forearm).
Now, turn your palm down and gently pull your fingers toward you for a count of 10. (Repeat on the other arm).
Shoulder Rolls:
Stand tall. Shrug your shoulders up toward your ears, then roll them back and down in a large, slow circle.
Repeat 5 times forward, and 5 times backward.
Standing Side Bend (Torso Stretch):
Stand with feet shoulder-width apart. Interlace your fingers and stretch your arms high overhead, palms facing up.
Slowly bend your body to the left, holding the stretch for 10 seconds. Return to center.
Repeat the bend to the right, holding for 10 seconds.
Your goal: Don't just show up to work—warm up to work!
