This study which took place down under in Wagga Wagga, Australia reports that stretching before exercise doesn't help prevent injury. There seems to be a lack of definition or research towards specific injuries. One of the authors suggests stretching after exercise may be helpful, but admits he has no research to back this up. Practical experience, has shown that stretching after being warmed up, appears to be physiologically better, and aid in recovery from certain injuries that are aggravated by tight muscles. The advice given by top sports medicine docs is to warm up gently and slowly, then stretch, do your sport, and stretch gently when done.
Flexibility is one of the components of fitness.
Don't give up on it just yet. The N.Y.Times reports our New Year's Eve trips to the hospital should go well. It is cheaper still if you just train yourself. Originally, a quick job that produces what is needed, but not well.