Sometimes finding the time and energy to stretch can quite often be the last thing I want to do after a long day.  But I know it’s extremely beneficial and an important part of creating a healthy balanced lifestyle routine. As I know Stretching at the end of your workout can help boost your flexibility, reduce the risk of injury, and decrease muscle tension in your body. It can even help improve your performance the next time you do a workout.

Stretching doesn’t need to take long and doesn’t need to be a chore, I find putting on some good neo-soul music, having a good mat and putting on a candle helps me to enjoy the experience much more. I have implemented this into my daily routine. It helps both with muscle tension and anxiety which gives me a more balanced lifestyle.

Benefits of stretching after a workout 

The benefits of stretching have been well-established. Here’s a summary of the key ways that stretching after a workout can help you. 

Greater flexibility and range of motion

Stretching can help increase the flexibility of your joints. Having greater flexibility helps you move around more easily, and it can also improve the range of motion in your joints. Range of motion is how far you can move a joint in a normal direction before it stops. 

Better posture and less back pain

Tight, tense muscles can lead to poor posture. When you sit or stand incorrectly, you often put extra pressure and strain on your muscles.

Less muscle tension and lower stress

High levels of stress can cause your muscles to tense up, which can make you feel as if you’re carrying stress in your body. Stretching muscles that feel tense and tight can help relax them. In turn, this may help lower your stress levels and help you feel calmer. 

Improved blood flow

Daily stretching can help improve your circulation. Increased blood flow to your muscles can help them heal more quickly after a workout. Better blood flow may also help prevent muscle soreness and stiffness after a workout. 

The difference between Dynamic and static stretches 

Static stretching involves stretches that you hold in place for a period of time, usually 20 to 60 seconds. Static stretching is typically done at the end of your workout, once your muscles are warm and relaxed. Dynamic stretching, on the other hand, involves active movements. With this type of stretch, your joints and muscles go through a full range of motion. Dynamic stretching is usually done before a workout to help warm up your muscles and get your heart rate up.