Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Should I Stretch Before I Exercise?

Even though we have all heard that we should stretch before we exercise to increase flexibility and strength also to avoid soreness, cramps and doing other injury to our bodies, not all of bother to stretch out. Not only do some of us not stretch, most of us who do stretch do not do it properly nor do we do it long enough to do our body the most good. The main reason most people do not stretch properly is because the stretching technique can be a little uncomfortable.


Everyone does need to stretch before exercises to warm your muscles. Some gyms now offer the services of a trainer for stretching sessions to teach proper technique, key moves and demonstrations of all the right stretches. With the trainers help you can be taught to go into deeper stretches to give your muscles a more adequate warm-up for your exercise routine. These trainers are well worth the time and money, especially if you know you need help with your stretching.


But before you run out and hire the first personal trainer you see, make sure you check them out.
Before you start...
Make sure your trainer is certified and qualified to teach stretching techniques. Ask your trainer if s/he has taken classes for stretching or if s/he has the necessary certificate(s).
Don't cut back on your regular fitness routine when you start your stretching exercises. Let the stretching be the prelude to your main routine and the last thing you do after your routine.



Consult your physician before you begin any new activities.

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