When do you need to stretch?

[drtbear1967]

Many think that stretching before a workout can help prevent injuries. However, very little data exists to support this opinion. Stretching can, in certain cases, increase injury risk and will more than likely impair performance when done before a workout. Keep your warm-ups to dynamic movements like plyometrics, jogging, or any other form of warm-up that gets a light sweat going. If you still want to stretch, do so after your workout.
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Source: Thacker, S. B., Gilchrist, J., Stroup, D. F., & Kimsey Jr, C. D. (2004). The impact of stretching on sports injury risk: a systematic review of the literature. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 36(3), 371-378.

 

[yellow snow]

Or during your workout. I am a big believer in stretching the muscle very aggressively once you have a good pump going. In my n=1 study I think this is a missing link that most younger lifter have no idea about. I think it makes the muscle grow more and definitly give it definition that is know as "muscle maturity"..............but then again what do I know.

 

[drtbear1967]

Check out John Parrillo - He has forgot more than most will ever know about stretching and training.