The Importance of Stretching

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The Importance of Stretching


stretchingTHE IMPORTANCE OF STRETCHING

Do you stretch after your workouts? Let’s be honest; so many people don’t stretch or even warm up for their training session, don’t worry you’re not alone. Even I forget or get distracted with kids after my session and remember later that I forgot to stretch! Many of us do it but we should definitely take the time to stretch after our training session. There are so many benefits.

Stretching your muscles before your workout is very important and the best form of stretching is called dynamic stretches. These types of stretches allow your muscles to swing in their full range of motion and essentially warm up your muscles. If your muscles are warm this helps to assist in any injury occurring.

The dynamic stretches I always perform are leg swings back and forth, also a lateral leg swing. I do big air kicks for each leg as well as rolling out my hip rotator muscles. Arm circles are also a great dynamic stretch. A dynamic warm up can be as simple as jogging, skipping, squats or even mountain climbers or push ups. Take it slow, you are simply warming up your muscles and getting them ready to be smashed!

Stretching after your workouts is just as important for your body as your actual workout. As we know, so many people don’t include a post workout stretch in their sessions, which can result in muscle and/or ligament soreness. In addition, you are exposing yourself to injury. 

Stretching should always be performed after any physical activity. Static stretches are a great post workout stretch and the only time I would recommend this type of stretch. A static stretch is when you hold the stretch in the same position for 20-60 seconds, repeating at least 1-2 times.  Whilst you are exercising, your muscles tighten and shorten as a result. Upon finishing your session, you should cool down your body for a few minutes and get straight into your stretches. 

The benefits that stretching provides to your body include:

  • Flexibility, Muscle recovery: Reduces the chance of injury or muscle strain
  • Reduces muscle soreness and encourages your muscles to recover properly

Of course, there are times when you should limit or simply not stretch your muscles at all:

  • If you have a muscle or ligament strain
  • After a fracture
  • If you feel any sharp pains in your muscles or joints

I believe it’s best to create a dynamic/static stretches routine that suits you and once this becomes a habit, you’ll complete your stretches each and every time you train. 

Happy stretching!

Big Love,