Training Tips: Do You Need To Stretch?

I think we have all had it drummed into us that we need to stretch before or after we exercise – whether that is for sport or a gym workout. But is it actually necessary? Is it actually beneficial or is it outdated and a waste of time? That’s what I’m going to talk about in this article and back it up with a bit of the latest research out there TL;DR – What stretching has been shown to do… It DOES improve Range of Motion (ROM), but only short term It DOES improve your tolerance to more stretching It assists in improving longer-term ROM increases when combined with loaded movement in your newly found range It DOESN’T have a meaningful impact on reducing injuries It DOESN’T actually lengthen muscles It DOESN’T result in an improved performance The Short Answer… Stretch and perform mobility exercises to acutely improve your ROM. Follow this up immediately with strength and (if necessary) proprioception training. This will result in improved functional ROM and strength as well as a decreased risk of injury. My recommendation: Spend up to 5 minutes prior to your warm-up performing mobility and stretches. Then incorporate more dynamic stretching, mobility and activation exercises within your warm-up. Also, don’t bother stretching after your workout – instead spend time actively recovering and reflecting on your session. For more...tune in Or head to the blog 👉 Should I Be Stretching?