This in effect lessens the impact of many exercises and athletic activities on your body, thus reducing injuries. Stretching regularly can also increase circulation, reduce muscle tension, and improve posture. Stretching can be done before a workout or after or even as a workout in itself as is the case with Yoga. The great thing about stretching is that it can really be done anywhere and doesn't require any special equipment. Regardless of when and where you stretch, be sure that your muscles are warmed up.
Many people make the mistake of substituting a warm up for stretching.
Stretching a muscle that is cold can be quite harmful and painful. The first area is the calf muscle. To properly stretch your calf, stand with one foot in front of the other with your feet a comfortable distance apart both facing the same direction. Your front leg should be bent with the knee directly over the ankle joint and the back leg straight out in back. Press the heel of your back leg to the ground until you feel a stretch in the lower back of your leg.