Stretching is very important for your body, workout related or not. Keeping your body flexible and stretched out is good for your overall health, preventing injury and keeping your body in a full range of motion. Let’s look at the best times to stretch throughout the day, to keep your body in top shape and prevent any tightening of cramps that can come while dealing with everyday life.
In the morning:
Stretching can be a great start to your day. Stretching in the morning allows your body to become fully flexible at the start of the day. A good morning stretch allows for the increase of blood flow and oxygen to your brain, allowing you to gain the energy needed to get out of bed and begin your day. You can also experience an improvement in your mood and reduced muscle soreness when you stretch out in the morning.
Before and After a Workout:
Stretching before a workout is important because your muscles need to be warmed up before performing strenuous activities. Stretching before a workout prevents any possible pulling in muscles when working out. Having more flexibility when working out allows you to get full range of motion in your workout, ultimately giving more results. It is important to also stretch after your workout. Stretching after your workout reduces muscle tension and avoids any muscle tightness or soreness. Stretching after a workout allows your muscles to stay loose and fully functional.
In the Evening:
Stretching in the evening gives you a lot of similar benefits as stretching in the morning. Keeping your muscles flexible before you go to sleep is as important as keeping them flexible throughout the day. Stretching before bed allows you to expect to wake up without muscle soreness or tight muscles. There is a higher percentage of waking up the following morning without aches or pains in muscles when stretched before bed.
Written by GUADS intern Chris
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