How Necessary Is Stretching?
Stretching is the process of placing particular parts of the body into a position that will lengthen, or elongate, the muscles and associated soft tissues. Upon undertaking a regular stretching program a number of changes begin to occur within the body and specifically within the muscles themselves.
Stretching exercises : Improve muscle and joint flexibility and increases their range of motion, improve performance, reduce the risk of injury, improve body posture and blood circulation.
MORE BENEFITS
The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) reccomends incorporating stretching exercises into your workouts 2 to 3 days per week.
Most people understand the importance of stretching as part of a warm-up or cool-down, but when else should you stretch?
Your decision to stretch or not to stretch should be based on what you want to achieve and should depend on:
The type of stretcing. Although there are many different ways to perform a stretch, they can all be grouped into one of two categories: Static or Dynamic. The term static stretches refers to stretches that are performed without movement. After your workout is a good time to perform static stretches.
The term dynamic stretches refers to stretches that are performed with movement. In other words, the individual uses a swinging or bouncing movement to extend their range of motion and flexibility. Dynamic stretches should be used as part of your warm-up routine before any athletic event.
The type of exercise. Activities such as dancing, ballet, yoga have different flexibility requirements compared to running, cycling or other more dynamic activities.
Your body type. Everyone is unique, your body can respond with great ease to some activities and not to others. The same goes for stretching. You should consult the experts, to discover your body and acheive the best results.
Γρηγόρης Δόγκας, Personal trainer, Εισηγητής σεμιναρίων, Associate manager της AthensTrainers®
Πηγή: Body Mgazine, τεύχος 55