As the weather begins to warm up, make sure you do, too, as you begin your exercise program. Stretching is so essential to enhancing your maximum efficiency and flexibility, it can stand alone as a valuable part of any training program. Stretching equals flexibility. With flexibility comes range of motion without stiffness or resistance. This can occur quickly with a consistent regimen.
Flexible muscles are less prone to soreness and injury.
They help improve overall muscular performance since they are longer and less likely to tear or strain than tight, inflexible muscles. Stretching also assists with joint mobility. Proper stretching elongates the tendons that attach muscles to the bone, thereby improving joint mobility. Kellogg recommends stretching at least once a day and definitely before and after exercising for 5 to 10 minutes. Stretches should be done in a controlled manner, not bouncing.