I have recently received a complimentary copy of the new DVD by the celebrated film director Jena Moreno, who is also the documentary maker of the fantastic DVD “Stitched, the film”. (See below for the review of Stitched, the Film.)
This time, the quilter is taken on a voyage of discovery of a different kind – it’s all about muscles and stretching for quilters.
I am one of probably many, many, many quilters who suffer from stress and sore muscles in the neck and back from too much stitching and not enough movement. I do the occasional stretch that helps, but have not really known what to do that’s best for me.
Randall Cook, who is by the way, a wonderful quilter in his own right and a physical training professional, takes us through some very gentle but effective stretching techniques for every part of our body that get stiff and sore by the continual sitting and repetitive movement that we can’t avoid as quilters.
To find out more about Randall Cook Randall Cook Website Click here
Randall has a very easy manner and the DVD is filmed with the viewer in mind – as I was reviewing this DVD I found it very easy to participate in some of the exercises, right here at my computer desk.
What I really like is that Randall has two quilters who are performing the stretching exercises with him. A lovely young thing that has the flexibility of a brand new rubber hose and a “mature” woman, about my age. It makes me feel very good seeing how far this lovely lady can reach and stretch. I feel right at home with my fitness level!!
As quilters general go, we are so busy creating and stitching and concentrating on how our wonderful quilt is going to turn out, that we forget that continual repetitive movement can be highly detrimental to our bodies. And when it gets too sore to sit and stitch, we are not happy campers!
I must admit that I find it difficult to remember to stop and stretch and change position, especially when I’m on a creative roll.
These exercises and stretches are very easy to perform, and of course you do it at your own rate and ability. No prizes for over stretching!
This DVD would be a great addition to your Quilting guild library and would also make a great Christmas present for any quilter.
