Stretching is one of the most overlooked part of exercise after a hard workout. Stretching tired and sore muscles after a workout is essential as it enhances flexibility and reduces muscle tension after a workout.
Stretching should be a part of your well-balanced workout routine, given the same importance as strength and cardiovascular training.
Stretching
1. Stiffness and Soreness
During a hard workout, muscles go through numerous contractions which leave them in a miss-shaped and shortened state, which is why you will feel stiffness and soreness if you don’t try and rectify the state by stretching.
2. Endorphins
Endorphins are released after a workout once your body starts to cool down, stretching helps slow the cooling process ensuring you feel energised after your workout.
3. Lower Back Pain
The most common complaint amongst people is the lower back area. Nine times out of ten stretching the hamstrings and hip flexors, muscles that are attached to the pelvis, will relieve that pain.
4. Tension and Anxiety
General tension and anxiety lead to tension in your muscles, whether that’s stiff necks or tight shoulders. Releasing and stretching those muscles often leads to an overall feeling of stress relief.
5. Flexibility
Increased flexibility, which will happen the more you stretch, will enable you to exercise more effectively.
6. Reduce the Risk of Injury
Reduce the risk of injury as you will have an improved range of motion, which in turn decreases resistance on your muscles.
7. Toned Muscles
Stretching over time will give your muscles tone and your body will look more slender. You only need to look at the bodies of those that practice Yoga on a regular basis.
Think of stretching as a way of resetting and gaining equilibrium after putting your body through stress. Rather than seeing it as an optional part of your workout think of stretching as part of your session, you will be maximising the benefits off all the hard work you’ve put in.