For many of us, stretching before we start a workout is as much a part of our routine as tying our running shoes or powering up our mp3 players.
But experts say stretching before you work out, when your muscles are still cold, can actually do more harm than good.
Forcing cold muscles into static stretches can cause strains or pulls, and your muscles can contract, making it harder for you to perform your best during your workout.
Beneficial stretching is all about technique and timing: Always warm up before you stretch, incorporate dynamic stretching and yoga, never stretch to the point of pain and learn stretches specific to your sport.
Jessica Matthews of the American Council on Exercise explains when and how to stretch: