Stretching before working out????

[Zoolander]

Hi all,
I read some where that stretching b4 workout gives u a higher chance of getting injuries.

How true is that?????

Another thing???

I just pulled my lateral deltoid two weeks ago, is it okay if I resume weights now. My shoulder feels ok .

thank u

[defdaz]

bro, stretching is very very beneficial to all people who exercise, not just runners etc. I really believe now my pec tear was due to me not stretching very much before the workout during which it happened.

Its been shown that stretching increases the elasticity of a muscle for quite a while after the stretching exercise and we all know that with time a rigourous stretching regime will improve flexibility.

As with most things you should seek a balance as being too flexible places your joints at a higher risk to injury and on the flipside being inflexible places your muscles at a higher risk.

When you stretch you shouldn't feel pain - just mild tension, and you should hold the stretch for 30 seconds if possible as it's around this time that the muscle will relax (it takes a while before the body is convinced that stretching the muscle any further than present is safe..).

Cheers,

def

[dane26]

not only should you stretch before you workout, but also in between sets. the more stretchign the better

[Shredz]

and to add to that..it is best not to stretch a cold muscle

[superbeast]

Ideally, you don't want to stretch a cold muscle. Do 5 minutes of cardio to get the blood pumping or do a set of very light high rep of whatever you are going to work. Then do your stretching. As Dane said, stretching between sets is good. This not only reduces injury but can help to stretch the muscle fascia and allow for bigger pumps and better growth.

SB

[Zoolander]

Thanks Bro

Do you know any websites where they show how to stretch every muscle ?????

[solid90062]

Stretching is good...Also throw in a set of warm up reps with light weight to get the blood flowing thru the muscles b4 the heavy loads

[Grocho]

I always stretch before any work out. Even the muscles i am not currently working.

[bufchic]

The above post are great. I am all about stretching.

[defdaz]

Wow, high praise indeed!! Thanks bufchic!! Now just don't go telling me you meant with the exception of mine! LOL!

Sorry to go off topic but your avatar.... these aren't the oft spoken of but never seen pins of the one and only bufchic are they!?! You were right, I am crying! LOL! hehe! Totally awesome, fantastic shape - best of luck for the future though I don't think you are going to need it... hey - from your whole attitude I think you may be what womens professional bb'ing needs... fingers crossed....

def

[Billy Boy]

Are they your legs Bufchic if so wow way to go !!

Warmup before stretching and stretching in between sets helps prevent injury.I would never train without stretching first

[defdaz]

Billy boy - hows that pec mate?

def

[bufchic]

They are and thank you guys
Def- Thanks my fingers ARE crossed and Im knocking on wood forsure. This should be an interesting year.

[Fif the Great]

Just a quick something I read at the gym I used to work out at:

Stretched muscles do work, tight muscles don't. You choose.

I thought it was kinda informative.

[defdaz]

bufchic - very best of luck! Weighed myself today. 19 stone (er, 266 pounds) almost exactly. Holy shit! I've never been above 256 before. I've put on more weight from the pec tear than I thought.

Fif - I like it!! Is your avatar Arnie from The 6th Day?

def

[9natural9]

stretching is very underrated, it is essential in my opinion

[DirkDiggs]

I do a little stretching before i work out but if i am doing chest or shoulders i make sure I stretch the rotator cuff