Stretch it out
Posted on November 7th, 2007 by ErinPosted in Exercise
We all know how important stretching is to our workout routine, but if you’re ever been tempted to skip it, a new study may convince you otherwise.
Stretching may actually enhance your performance, improving the benefits your reap from your workout program. Arnold Nelson, associate professor of kinesiology (the study of the mechanics of body movements) at Louisiana State University, states that the “extent that some people have improved was surprising.” Stretching may help make you stronger and increase your endurance.
Of course, stretching doesn’t take the place of your current exercise routine, rather it supplements your regimen. Nelson says that study results imply that stretching is like light strength training, testing your muscles and “activating some of the same things in the cell that exercise activates”.
So what does this mean? At the very least, you should stretch all major muscle groups at least a few times a week. If you have a regular exercise routine, this is easy: just stretch yourself out before and after. If you don’t already work out, make time to do more than just than just stretch your arms in the morning. You’ll feel more invigorated, with a bounce in your step as you get ready for work.
