How Stretching Can Improve Your Fitness Level
Many people skip stretching after a workout, but there are very good reasons for completing even a few stretching exercises.
With all the emphasis on cardiovascular exercise and weight training, it's easy for stretching to be an afterthought to your workout routine. But putting some effort to it consistently can help you in many ways.
Benefits of Stretching
The obvious benefit of stretching is improved flexibility. This helps your muscles perform better even when doing regular, everyday activities. Stretching does more than just this, however.
Stretching improves the range of motion in your joints, which can help prevent injuries.
Stretching improves the blood circulation, which can help your muscles heal faster after injuries.
If you've just done a difficult workout, stretching the muscles you just used can reduce soreness.
Stretching is relaxing and feels good. Taking the time to stretch after a workout helps bring down your heart rate, loosen your muscles and melt stress away.