Stretching is a must for a good workout. Stretching prevents injury, increases performance, increases body awareness, and can reduce the overall stress on your body. To get the most benefit from a stretching routine:
- Always warm up before stretching.
- Stretching should not include "bouncing" the muscles.
- Hold each stretch for 10-30 seconds. Repeat this stretch approximately 3 to 5 times to ensure a good stretch.
- Do not over-stretch or you risk pulling a muscle. Ease into any stretch.