When To Stretch

MeganKSchultz

I'm trying to increase my flexibility. Is it better to stretch before or after a cardio workout?

firstsip

... Both.

1223345

I do both. Very light stretch before, more intense after.

37434958

Both! Stretching is always good.

257_Lag

I have been wondering this myself. When I did Ty Bo and stretched before I felt like I was gaining flexibility. Now I am doing 30 DS and stretching after and I am so winded I feel like I am getting nothing from it?

ValerieMomof2

Dynamic stretching is best before, static stretching is best after and by static, hold the stretch around 30 seconds. Also stretch periodically during the day.

Here are examples of dynamic:
http://www.runnersworld.com/stretching/dynamic-routine

IIISpartacusIII

I do some light, non painful stretching before and then horribly painful stretching after I'm warmed up. This has made me a pretty damn flexible dude!

IzzyBooNZ1

I thought static stretching should never be done on cold muscles??? is this true

christimccarty

stretch when your warm! this is when the change will occur. your dynamic stretching before helps get you warm to do you workout... no static stretching when your muscles are cold...you'll pull something!
Those doing Jillian michaels.... YES, stretch for longer than she does at the end! theres def not enough of a stretch on that video! go to youtube and find you a better stretch for after if you need some assistance on what stretches to do.

ValerieMomof2

I thought static stretching should never be done on cold muscles??? is this true

That is correct. Dynamic stretching is much better before a workout of any kind. Static stretch as part of your cool down