Carisa Gaylardo holds a master of arts in physical fitness and coaching from the State University of New York. A fitness professional and stretch therapist at Lifetime Athletic Fitness, Carisa Gaylardo emphasizes the importance of pre-workout and post-workout stretching in order to speed recovery and prevent injury.
After a hard workout, it’s tempting to call it quits. An effective post-workout stretching routine, however, can be as important as the workout itself. Here are just a few benefits:
1. Reduces soreness and stiffness. Muscles contract and shorten during exercise. If you don’t actively stretch them afterward, they can be sore and stiff the next day.
2. Eliminates lactic acid. Post-workout stretching releases the lactic acid that builds up during exercise and is another contributor to muscle stiffness.
3. Reduces risk of injury. Stretching increases range of motion, which decreases muscle resistance and makes injury less likely.
4. Improves blood flow. Stretching after a workout helps the blood flow back into your muscles, slows your heart rate, and helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to muscles, promoting recovery.
After a hard workout, it’s tempting to call it quits. An effective post-workout stretching routine, however, can be as important as the workout itself. Here are just a few benefits:
1. Reduces soreness and stiffness. Muscles contract and shorten during exercise. If you don’t actively stretch them afterward, they can be sore and stiff the next day.
2. Eliminates lactic acid. Post-workout stretching releases the lactic acid that builds up during exercise and is another contributor to muscle stiffness.
3. Reduces risk of injury. Stretching increases range of motion, which decreases muscle resistance and makes injury less likely.
4. Improves blood flow. Stretching after a workout helps the blood flow back into your muscles, slows your heart rate, and helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to muscles, promoting recovery.
