When and how should you stretch?
You can stretch anytime you feel like it, or you can do so in conjunction with other workouts. Just remember it is important to stretch after any physical activity.
Stretch after cardio,strength training or any type of sport. Your muscles are warmer and more pliable after the activity than before. This makes it easier to lengthen them and less prone to injury.
According to Wayne Wescott, Ph.D., fitness director of the South Shore YMCA in Quincy, Massachusetts, vigorous stretching before exercise, when muscles are cold and less pliable will produce less benefit and may leave tendons more prone to injury. By the way, he says that Too Much Training Can Often Backfire.
Start your workout with a five-minute cardio warm-up, stretch gently and then do your usual routine. Then do more vigorous stretching following your workout.
Some important things to remember
- Don't bounce
- Don't stretch to the point of pain
- Don't forget to breathe
