Importance of stretching: Workout dos and don'ts

Regular stretching helps the body to stay flexible as you grow older. Various research studies on stretching concluded that some type of stretching can enhance the workout, whereas others don't affect substantially. There are specific guidelines when it comes to stretching. Here are the dos and don’ts to keep in mind before and after your workouts.

ALSO READ| WATCH: Kareena Kapoor-Amrita Arora's Work Out Video Will Drive Your Mid-week Blues Away

Workout tips: Importance of stretching

• Fitness experts suggest that regular stretching can keep the hips and hamstrings flexible as you grow older.
• For example, an office person with back pain could find relief while stretching in the reverse posture like the ‘standing cat camel pose.’ Stretching actually works in such situations when you are stuck in the same posture for hours. 
• There are two types of stretches you should know about – dynamic stretch and static stretch. Dynamic stretch moves a muscle group through a continuous range of motion while in static stretching you stretch a muscle to the whole extent by holding it for some time.
• According to experts, dynamic stretching done before training showed improvement in the athletic performance of people.
• Static stretching helps to relieve cramping and improve your range of motion. But, it was found that static stretching done before sprinting can weaken the performance of the athletes. This could be caused as the muscles may get tired due to excessive static stretching. (Source: A study performed at Middle Tennessee State University, soccer players)

ALSO READ| Healthcare: Top Three Exercises To Build Strong And Toned Calves

Work out Dos and Don’ts

• If you want to warm up your body before a run, start with a brisk walk, walking lunges, butt kicks or high steps. 
• Stretching should be included in your regular routine like when you wake up, before you sleep, or during breaks at work in order to ensure flexibility in your body and ensure proper blood flow.
• If you are doing static stretching, always remember to warm up your body first. 
• If you are somebody who does intense workouts, then static stretching may help you avoid sore muscles post-workout. 

(Disclaimer- Consult your gym instructor for the stretching exercises that will be suitable according to your body type as well as your athletic intensity)

Source: Web MD, Livestrong

ALSO READ| Sonam Kapoor's Mom Sunita's Pilates Exercise Will Inspire You, Watch

ALSO READ| Weight Loss Tips: Top 3 Office-exercises That Can Help Keep You Fit