How do I know when to streach

lanenalatina

Hello everyone I am new to MFP and so far I truly love it, So far I am doing preatty good, I work out 6 days a week, I walk/jogg on my treadmill every morning for about 45 minutes......... The only concern I have is should I streach before starting my workout or stop while I am working out and streach or at the end? I am kindof doing it before walk/jogg for about 20 minutes stop and streach continue the rest of my work out and streach again.............But my legs get very tight and crampy sometimes, during the day I am sore but I am okay with that b/c that mean I am doing a good job.

So can anyone give me any helpful tips
thankz

bizco

Do you mean "stretch"? If so, never stretch cold muscles. Stretch when you're done using the treadmill. Make sure you walk first on the treadmill for around 5 minutes before you begin jogging.

SheehyCFC

never stretch cold muscles. Stretch when you're done using the treadmill. Make sure you walk first on the treadmill for around 5 minutes before you begin jogging.

Great advice. You need a warm-up (and a cool-down!). Then AFTER you're finished, stretch. I always stretch at least 10 minutes, so make sure to put the time-in and not "half-@ss" it.

**edit - you're not your... whoops

amuhlou

It's always a good idea to stretch before and after your workouts, for at least 5 minutes each.

If you're doing the treadmill you'll definitely want to pay special attention to your calves, ankles, and hamstrings. Hold stretches for at least 30 seconds.

yes_i_can

I always stretch before and after. That said, it really isn't great to stretch cold, so if you've been stagnant most of the day, I would recommend walking for 5 minutes or so, then stretching, finish your work-out, then stretch again.

MistyMtnMan

Warm up.

Stretch.

Workout.

Cool Down.

Stretch.

Repeat.

srp2011

Don't stretch before working out - you can tear muscles and do other damage if you stretch while the mucles are cold. Stretch afterwards, when muscles have warmed up. This is the standard that all exercise trainers/coaches are saying now. The only exception would be "dynamic stretching", which is certain 'stretches' you perform while moving (so your muscles are warming at the same time, and the stretches are less intense) - google 'dynamic stretching' if you want to see specifics.

MistyMtnMan

Don't stretch before working out - you can tear muscles and do other damage if you stretch while the mucles are cold. Stretch afterwards, when muscles have warmed up. This is the standard that all exercise trainers/coaches are saying now. The only exception would be "dynamic stretching", which is certain 'stretches' you perform while moving (so your muscles are warming at the same time, and the stretches are less intense) - google 'dynamic stretching' if you want to see specifics.

Not true. As long as you warm up first you're fine. If you don't stretch before, you could pull a muscle and be in REAL bad shape.

MinnieInMaine

I'm more concerned that your muscles are getting tight during your workout to the point where you feel like you have to stop and stretch. I'm wondering if maybe you need better sneakers and or insoles (for more shock absorption). Do you eat bananas? The extra potassium can really help with muscle cramping. Also, make sure you're getting plenty of protein in your diet and drinking plenty of water before, during and after exercising.

Rebeccasluckyduck

I am huge on stretching. I warm up, usually 10 minutes or so to get the blood flowing, then I do a good stretch. If I'm running, sometimes my shins will tighten up so I'll stretch mid run. Then I stretch again when I'm done. LOVE to stretch.

lanenalatina

Do you mean "stretch"? If so, never stretch cold muscles. Stretch when you're done using the treadmill. Make sure you walk first on the treadmill for around 5 minutes before you begin jogging.

@Bizco Yes that is what I mean "stretch" sorry I didn't spell it right and thanks for advice

lanenalatina

Thankz every one I will do what everyone says here!!!
@ Nayshel Yes I eat a banana usually one daily, I do were running/walking shoes. But I am going to look into it and c if I can get mayber another pair of better shoes with more support.!!!!

beccaboo1021

Think of your muscles like a tootsie roll - it's softer and stretchier if it's warmed up first. I only stretch when I'm done working out, or if I'm going to do something more intense (like sprints or lifting heavily), then I will do a warm up before the stretch, and then after I'm done I will end with another good stretch.

MinnieInMaine

Thankz every one I will do what everyone says here!!!
@ Nayshel Yes I eat a banana usually one daily, I do were running/walking shoes. But I am going to look into it and c if I can get mayber another pair of better shoes with more support.!!!!

Good luck! If you'd like to check out inserts for extra support, Spenco makes a great one for running. I've been wearing their arch supports for walking/running for years because I have horrid feet. You can find them at most athletic shoe store or online.

lanenalatina

Thanks beccaboo1021 I like how you discrive it!!!

scottb81

There is no need to stretch for running and walking. Too much stretching will increase the chance of injury. If you want to stretch then do it after the workout when everthing is warmed up.