Stretching

badgeratheart

In the interest of time, I usually skip stretching when working out. I know that is probably not the optimal decision to make, but with limited time, I'd rather spend it on running, swimming, circuit training, strength training or whatever else. Can someone explain the science behind the benefits of stretching that will convince me to actually dedicate some time to it?

ilovedeadlifts

If you don't have time to start with a warmup and end with stretching, you don't really have time to workout. I at least try to take 4-5 minutes to stretch out my legs and low back after a workout.

I don't keep any studies on hand of prove a point, but trust me after a year of lifting without stretching, you'll understand.

spotdog14

Honestly in all my years of running, even in High School I never found stretching to do much until I actually had something go wrong. I have found no difference between my daily work outs of when I warm up and cool down or when I just walk out of the Y.

jcpmoore

"Stretching after a workout serves a dual function. The body is given time to cool down and the muscles are elongated after shortening during the workout. Stretching is essential for muscle health and the prevention of injury.
When a muscle is used repeatedly, lactic acid moves into the muscle. This is the acid that causes pain in the muscle after a workout. When the activity stops, the muscles are at their shortest and need to be stretched while warm in order to move some of this acid out of the muscle. When lactic acid is left in the muscle, contraction can occur and the muscle can be injured easily."

Take this for what it's worth, from Yahoo Voices. http://voices.yahoo.com/why-stretch-after-workout-4282241.html?cat=51

In my experience, it's better to take the time to stretch. What I have seen go wrong when people don't stretch: Muscles remain in a contracted state-it's easy to pull a muscle just climbing stairs or some such event. I've seen seasoned athletes do this. It's not pretty.

That said, it doesn't have to take long. You can stretch legs and arms at the same time. A quick and effective stretching routine can be done in 3.5 minutes. Do you really not have 3.5 minutes?

badgeratheart

You're right. I do have 3.5 minutes. I just usually feel like I'm done with the "workout" and feel rushed to get in the shower to get to work. I know that I should be stretching, I just need some reminders about how and why it's beneficial so that I will actually make time for it.