The keyword here is “most”. Every individual has their own set of tight muscles that need to be stretched. This is a very generalized list of 5 muscles that are commonly tight amongst our population.
1) PECTORALIS/ANTERIOR DELTOID.
This will help to correct the rounded shoulder, hunched over posture many of us have.
2) HIP FLEXORS.
We sit A LOT. This keeps our hip flexors in a constant shortened state. When we do get up and walk or climb stairs, the hip flexors are activated as well (unless you walk backwards).
3) UPPER TRAPEZIUS.
We tend to carry a lot of tension and stress in our neck, head, and traps. Keeping your shoulders away from your ears will alleviate some tension in this area.
4) CALVES.
Tight Calves can lead to common issues such as shinsplints, plantar fasciitis, and Achilles tendonitis. They will also disrupt your ability to squat correctly, especially in the lower portion.
5) STERNOCLEIDOMASTOID.
If you see a muscle sticking out of someone’s neck it’s probably the SCM, It’s the most hyper active muscle in the neck. This will pull the head forward and elevate the chin when hyperactive. If you spend most of your waking hours looking down at your phone, tablet, or computer screen, you probably have a tight SCM.