Be honest, how much time do you dedicate to stretching before and after activity? For most, it is not nearly enough. Stretching before any physical activity can reduce the risk of injury and improve performance. 

Flexibility is important during any physical activity. It lengthens your muscles, making them more flexible, and decreases the likelihood of tearing or injury. Stretching can also increase your range of motion. By improving your range of motion, your joints will move better, which can increase performance during your workout. A good stretch boosts the blood flow to your muscles, making them work more efficiently throughout your workout. Looking to decrease muscle tension? Stretching not only improves performance but also relieves post-exercise aches and pains.

Stretching during cooldown is just as important. Post-workout stretch has similar benefits to pre-workout stretch. Along with increased flexibility, range of motion, blood flow, and muscle tension, you will also improve your posture. Improved posture comes from stretching the chest, shoulders, and lower back. Stretching can also help relieve post-workout aches and pains, also known as DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness). Finally, stretching post-workout can help relieve stress. It brings the heart rate back to normal, slowly, making it easier to stay in that rhythm.

Don’t be stiff! Get flexible! Stretch for an appropriate amount of time before and after exercise. Remember, stretching should never be painful, so don’t force it to that point!