Consistent stretching can have a massive impact on the way we function. Becoming more flexible has 3 major benefits on the body:
- It allows us to keep our joints moving through their entire range of motion: This means our muscles contact and relax efficiently, causing less stress when pushing the body.
- It decreases risk of injury: By keeping our muscles flexible we reduce the chances of pushing them to the limit where we may get an injury.
- It increases our performance levels: By having a greater range of motion we can effectively contract muscles at a higher intensity. This means a higher output of power.
There are 2 main types of stretching that we should use regularly; Static and dynamic. As their names suggest, static is holding a stretch for a certain period of time and dynamic is stretching through of movement. We should use dynamic stretching prior to exercise to get the body used to the movements that will be done in the session. This allows our neuromuscular system to feel comfortable with the exercises. Static stretching should be used to warm down. It allows the body to relax by lengthening the muscles and holding the stretch.
After we release the stretch the muscle can comfortably return to a normal state. We should always stretch before and after every session, and even dedicate a day or 2 where we stretch for 30 minutes or so, focusing on tight muscles group. Within about 2 weeks of consistent stretching there will be a noticeable different in flexibility and muscular contraction.
*Disclaimer: Individual results vary based on agreed goals. Click here for details.
