Should You Stretch Before Exercise?

Exercise experts suggest that everyone should do some type of warm-up exercise before going into a full workout. Where experts disagree, however, is what type of stretching is necessary for certain types of workouts. Most people who grew up in the American school system are aware of the static stretch technique, whereby you stretch your body or limbs into a certain position and then hold it for a required period of time. Some studies are showing that these static stretches do not help improve performance; however, there does not appear to be any scientific consensus at this point on whether static stretching is good or bad.

Many experts believe that a more dynamic form of stretching is preferable. These kinds of stretches, like lunges or squats, blend movements together in order to mimic natural motions. Of course, some experts say that these dynamic stretches do nothing to enhance performance either. A common recommendation in recent years is to perform dynamic stretches before working out and then static ones afterward. Dr. Monique Brady, who works with athletes at the OhioSports Medicine Institute,   recommends warming up the muscles before working out. “You want to increase muscle temperature because that’s going to help them contract better and relax more quickly,” she said, adding, "Stretches both before and after exercise aim to prevent acute injury such as strains."

Despite these claims, there remains much debate about whether stretching of any kind is beneficial. The American  College of Sports Medicine reported that there was too little evidence to support either side of the argument, despite the fact that a year earlier they advised against stretching before exercise.  For now, experts and trainers are recommending that people continue using routines that are comfortable for them. The science will eventually catch up with our practices, but for now we remain in the dark when it comes to stretching.