Q: I’ve been a member of a gym for a while and recently signed up for a free consultation with one of their trainers. The other day we did our first workout together. She suggested that we stretch out first prior to doing our workout. I always thought I should stretch after my workout. Which is better – stretching before working out or stretching after working out?
Kelly B.
A: Kelly, The answer lies in what type of stretching you are looking to do.
Most people are familiar with static stretching – it’s where you hold one pose for 30 -60 seconds. Beyond that, various other forms of flexibility get over looked…
So is static stretching advisable?
Completing a 30-60 second stretch for a particular muscle when it isn’t properly warmed up is unsafe. For this fact alone static stretching is not advisable before a workout, but there is also another little known reason why you should refrain from this activity.
Studies have shown that completing a static stretch before exercising leads to a 5-10% reduction in overall strength for that muscle’s corresponding lift. This may seem like a trivial amount, but when your results hinge on you progressing up in weights this can certainly slow your advances.
Although there are exceptions to every rule, save your static stretching for after you have completed your workout. Keep in mind that all of our trainers at Fitness Together are certified and will give you the latest information to help you reach your goals. Stop by anytime and we’ll help you out!
Until then, stay strong!
Sincerely,
Tony Magden – Fitness Together Trainer
To receive a FREE Session to Fitness Together Raleigh Hills – click here
