The team here at CPW will often tell you that stretching is important, but why is that?
For some people, stretching is a part of our daily lives.
It is vitally important to incorporate it into exercise, both before and after. However, for many people it is something we do when we wake up in the morning, or after being at the desk for too long.
We will explain what stretching is, when to do it, and why it is important.
What is stretching?
In its most basic of forms, stretching is an instinctive activity, done by humans and animals alike. The main aim of a stretch is to reduce muscle tension and improve flexibility and range of motion around a joint.
Stretching can be done for a specific tendon, muscle, or group of muscles.
Stretches can be static or dynamic. Static stretches are done whilst being still, and dynamic is done through movement. Typically, static stretches are done post-exercise and dynamic stretches before.
Both types have their benefits, and both should be used.
When to stretch?
As we said above, stretching is an instinctive activity. We will stretch usually after extended periods of rest or inactivity. This could be after sleeping, sitting, or resting.
Stretching should also be done as part of a warmup for any kind of physical activity. Research suggests that stretching before an activity can help with the prevention of injuries. This is because we gradually warm a muscle before taking it throughout its full range of motion. Other benefits include increased athletic performance and reducing onset of fatigue.
Stretching after activity helps to reduce the onset of injury. Stretching begins the healing process and sets us on the road to recovery. It can also be useful to improve flexibility. Who does not want to be able to touch their toes?
Not just for activity, stretching can help reduce the chance of injury in sedentary people. Pain relief and reduce soreness can have a positive impact on our lives. Stretching various body parts can also help reduce blood pressure, relieve headaches, and prevent muscular soreness. As with our MSK programs, this can be done at home or at work.
We are here to help.
Our expert team at CPW are here to help. We can offer free advice on stretching and activity or go one step further with our MSK services.
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