When to Stretch

[Joe]

I've heard a lot of different opinions as to when is the right time to stretch. I'm still unsure! Is it better to stretch before, during or after my workout??

[justin]

The best time to stretch is after your body has had some sort of movement, such as a quick warm up on a treadmill or after your workout. Why? Because your muscle fibers have had a chance to warm up becoming more pliable.

You know the candy Laffey Taffey, think of this as a muscle. If you were to place the candy inside the refrigerator for 5 minutes and then try to bend it, it's most likely going to break in half. Your muscle tissue acts very similar. Now let the candy sit in the sun for 5 minutes and then bend it. This time the candy will bend with ease.

Avoid any risk of injury and stretch after your workout. You will be more effective at increasing your flexibility....PLUS it's a great cool down!

[Joe]

Thanks so much Justin! That was really helpful. I will definitely use that analogy if I ever get asked this question from anybody else!