Don't Stretch Before Sports, Experts Say

Baack · Apr 15, 2010

Want a better workout? Then don't stretch beforehand, some experts say.

Many people take it for granted that they should start their exercise routines with some stretching on the spot, perhaps hoping it will loosen them up for their work-out. Most fitness experts now agree this kind of static stretching before exercise is not just counter-productive, but potentially harmful.

Traditional stretches, like when people bend over to touch their toes or stretch their legs on a fence, often cause the muscles to tighten rather than relax -- exactly the opposite of what is needed for physical activity.

Experts say it is like extending a rubber band to its limit. When people stretch to the maximum, they are more likely to pull a muscle.

"We have developed this idea of static stretching at exactly the wrong time," said Kieran O'Sullivan, an exercise expert at the University of Limerick in Ireland, who has studied various types of stretching and their impact on athletes.

When you stretch before exercising, your body may think it's at risk of being overstretched. It compensates by contracting and becoming more tense. That means you aren't able to move as fast or as freely, making you more likely to get hurt.
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http://www.wisn.com/irresistible/23158050/detail.html

otherhalftw · Apr 15, 2010

Baack said: ↑

http://www.wisn.com/irresistible/23158050/detail.html
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I'm waiting for the follow up report that says foreplay is dangerous before sex! Don't want to pull a "muscle" before fun begins!

Static stretching...is that the new term for "shock therapy"?

Baack · Apr 15, 2010

otherhalftw said: ↑

I'm waiting for the follow up report that says foreplay is dangerous before sex! Don't want to pull a "muscle" before fun begins!
Click to expand...

From reading some of your wifes post's
I don't think this issue will be a problem

otherhalftw · Apr 15, 2010

Baack said: ↑

From reading some of your wifes post's
I don't think this issue will be a problem
Click to expand...

Oh no...it wasn't for me...I was genuinely worried about the other "younger" drivers that still have a sex life!

Funny guy you are!

TruckrsWife · Apr 15, 2010

I haven't had that good a laugh in a loooooonnnnng time. Thanks to everyone!

TruckrsWife · Apr 15, 2010

otherhalftw said: ↑

Oh no...it wasn't for me...I was genuinely worried about the other "younger" drivers that still have a sex life!

Funny guy you are!
Click to expand...

You're too cute, hon. lol

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Don't Stretch Before Sports, Experts Say

Baack Road Train Member

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otherhalftw R.I.P.

Baack Road Train Member

otherhalftw R.I.P.

TruckrsWife Significant Otter

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Wait, employers can't reach you!