When I go to the gym to work out, I see all these people stretching. I just want to get to the exercise. Is all this warm-up stretching really needed?
Many studies have shown the importance of stretching. Improving muscle flexibility is thought to decrease muscle and tendon injuries. It also improves muscle function and, therefore, athletic performance.
There are some muscles at greater risk for injury without stretching. The hamstrings on the back of the thigh is one. Studies show a lack of hamstring length is the most common cause of leg injury in athletes.
It's best to take the time to begin a workout with some stretching exercises. The three to five minutes it takes to stretch your muscles is a good investment of time. It's like money in the back when it comes to preventing problems later.
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