How Important Is Stretching, Really?

Let’s face it… not all of us love getting our sweat on. But, with the mental and physical health benefits of movement constantly being hyped, those of us who aren’t exactly gym lovers might be wondering: What if I just stretched? Would that be enough? 

While many fitness routines incorporate stretching, you’ll typically find that they only account for a short period of time (usually around 8 to 10 minutes) either at the beginning or end of a workout class or session. And when programs do suggest active recovery stretch days, it’s normally to supplement the strength and cardio exercises that fill the rest of your week. Reason being? Stretching is a beneficial form of movement, but as the single component of a fitness routine, it’s not enough to give you the health benefits that could come from vigorous activity. 

So, when should you stretch then?

The type of stretching done before or after a workout is vastly different from the type of stretching that is required to improve one’s flexibility and range of motion. The purpose of a warm up or cool down is to prepare your body for activity or to restore your body to a pre-exercise level. Whereas if your goal is to improve your level of flexibility, then stretching various muscle groups on a day-to-day basis can help contribute. 

Stretching can also be hugely beneficial in reducing the risk of injury, helping correct muscular imbalance and even assist in repairing joint dysfunction. If done correctly, stretching is one of the simplest forms of body maintenance which almost anyone can do! 

You might then be asking, what about yoga?

While some people equate yoga with stretching, anyone who's taken a serious Vinyasa or Ashtanga class can confirm it’s working a lot more than just your flexibility. Yoga has gained significant popularity with individuals across the globe, because of its intricate balance of both strength and stretch-based movements in a harmonious and connected synergy. 

The body is meant to move - and while stretching may be slightly limited, it does still have a host of benefits for our overall health and should therefore be included and prioritised in your daily exercise regime nonetheless!

Team Sudor