Stretching can be a valuable part of a fitness routine, but has both pros and cons depending on how and when it’s done.
Pros:
- Improves flexibility- helps increase joint range of motion
- Enhances circulation- boosting blood flow to the muscles can aid recovery and reduce post-activity soreness
- Improves posture- helps correct muscle imbalance improving alignment
- Reduces muscle tension and stress- can have a calming effect, reducing physical and mental tension
- Improves mobility and balance- especially important as WE age and can reduce fall risk
Cons:
- Risk of injury if done incorrectly- overstretching or bouncing during stretches (ballistic stretching) can lead to strains or tears
- Not always helpful pre-workout- stretching cold muscles often leads to injury
- Time-consuming- effective stretching requires consistency and time causing people to omit this in the workout’s end
- Limited immediate impact- a long-term investment, stretching does not provide instant results
Best Practices:
- Warm up your body with light calisthenics and movement prep
- Use static stretching as part of the cool-down
- Avoid bouncing; hold stretches steadily for 8-10 seconds, release for 5, hold 8-10, release 5, hold 8-10, then done. Linger at muscles who you feel want a little more time
Remember the purpose of stretching: Muscles shorten during the contracting phase of the exercise–Use stretching to restore the muscles to their resting lengths.
The office will be open: Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, May 20, 21, 22. The calendar is open to schedule through June 19th!
Scheduling your appointments as recommended makes for optimal care.
Even if you are feeling good, tightness sneaks up without notice; maintenance care every 3-4 weeks will keep you in your best shape!
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Together we can make 2025 a great year to be alive!
See you soon,
Dr. Anne Sorrentino