Questions and Answers

Q: Why is stretching so important for an exercise program?

The plain truth is that without flexibility, you are probably not achieving your full exercise potential and you are an injury waiting to happen. You see, tight muscles simply cannot go through their full range of motion. In fact, lack of flexibility is probably the biggest cause of Achilles tendonitis and is a major factor in shin splints, two injuries common to runners. When you stretch, move slowly and gradually into each position and hold for several seconds before relaxing. Repeat each stretch 6-8 times. Never bounce to force your muscles into a stretch and never stretch a muscle to the point of pain. Pain indicates that you are stretching too hard or that some injury needs attention.

Return to questions