Why you should stretch before & after a workout

Stretching before exercise reduces your risk of injury as your body becomes more pliable. Stretch the main muscle groups which you intend to workout during your session.

As an example, if you're planning a lower body workout, you should gently stretch hamstrings, the quadriceps, the glutes and the calf muscles and hold each stretch for 10 seconds. Follow with a warm-up before your workout starts.

Stretching after your workout could be argued is more important than stretching before your exercise. Don't forget maintenance stretches too! Stretching after your workout, stretches your muscles back to their regular length and alleviates potential soreness.

Stretching helps to:
- Reduce muscle tension
- Increases your range of motion
- Prevents muscle strains
- Prevents joint strains
- Prepares the body for strenuous exercise
- Reduces muscular soreness

Do not stretch if:
- If you've had a recent bone fracture, sprain or strain
- If  your range of motion is in some way limited
- If your joint is inflamed or infected
- If you have signs of osteoporosis
- If you experience pain when the joint is moved, or the muscle is stretched


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