Stretching Tips and Benefits

As we age and/or begin to exercise more often, it is very important to stretch on a regular basis. Our personal trainers recommend several helpful tips to ensure our clients get the most out of their flexibility program goals.

1- Stretch on a daily basis to get the best results and to reduce Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness, also known as muscle tightness and soreness.

2- Stay hydrated throughout the day to help reduce D.O.M.S. (soreness and tightness). Drink enough so that you aren’t thirsty often.

3- Before you exercise you should be performing a dynamic stretch (warm-up), instead of some static stretching. It is more beneficial to do an activity that is going to mimic the movements you will be performing during your workout (ie. jumping jacks, treadmill light job etc.)

4- Do your static stretching after your workout to help reduce the resting length of your muscles and therefore reducing the D.O.M.S. (soreness and tightness). A general rule of thumb is to hold your stretch for 30 seconds or more and to exhale into the stretch as you hold it.

5- When performing a stretch for any muscle in the body, it is important to understand the origin and insertion points of the muscle group you are focused on stretching. This will help you get an optimal stretch and best results.

6- By stretching on a daily basis you will reduce your chance for injuries and improve your overall performance throughout the workout session.

Here is a video explaining the top stretching tips to incorporate into your flexibility routine.

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