Stretching after squats?

[45lb]

I read an article recently that said, "Squats can come with a cost, so stretching after doing them isn't an option - it's an imperative."

How many of you stretch after squats, and what does your stretching routine look like?

Also, do you routinely use a foam roller on your legs or back/spine? If so, when, before or after squatting?

[hellomycognomen]

There is research that indicates no difference whatsoever between stretching and not stretching before an exercise, and in some cases static stretching can actually be counter productive.

Why would you need to stretch after squats anyways? And everything in life has a cost, that IMO is a generic catch all phrase that has no meaning.

If you perform the exercise with full range of motion, you are in essence simultaneously performing "stretching"

[shaunjohn242002]

Give it a month and that same magazine will come out with an article saying stretching is bad after squats. I like stretching but that's just me. Get warmed up and you're good. I like using foam rollers before I lift. It loosens me up. Is it a must? No. Just something I do

[Xv1d]

I have been working on my squat for the past 2 years. Last year has yielded the most results and I always done a warmup routine with dynamic stretching before doing any squats. There is a huge difference in mobility if I do not perform my routine. And I have gotten significantly more flexible over time.

Stretching afterwards I've never done, It's onto the next exercise for me.

[chefjmo]

If I don't stretch my hammies get so tight I get lower back pain. So for me stretching is a must.

[45lb]

Ok, thanks for the replies

[Mr.BB]

I agree with the statement.

Have been lazy in my stretching and the ROM in my quads is getting worse and worse.

[Ashop]

I agree with the statement.

Have been lazy in my stretching and the ROM in my quads is getting worse and worse.

I think its a great idea to stretch and even flex/pose when you can. Many benefits in doing so.

[hooligans luck]

Yes stretching and foam rolling often helps bring blood into the muscles so recovery can take place. I run smolov Jr squat workouts and squat 4 times a week. Without recovery techniques I couldn't.

[DJT]

I stretch well before and stretch just the hamstrings after as I usually recover well from leg workouts.