Pre Exercise Static Stretching is Bad for You
November 16, 2008 | Leave a Comment
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There are still many people in the gym that starts their workout with a nice session of stretching. A recent study done at University of Oklahoma has proved pre exercise static stretch increases your chances of injury.
Research
A study from the University of Oklahoma, led by Joel Cramer, measured the effects of static stretching for 2, 4, and 8 minutes on muscle strength, muscle power, muscle endurance, speed and vertical jump.
Conclusion
Pre exercise static stretch actually had no effect on muscle strength, muscle power, muscle endurance, speed and vertical jump but it did increase the range of movement only for 10 minutes. The static stretching reduced neuromuscular control and decrease muscle activation which means your brain has less control over your muscle, increasing your chance for injuries.
Now, I’m not saying all stretching is bad. Studies also found, regular stretching with proper workout program increases muscle strength by 30 percent compared to workouts alone. So it is not a question of stretch or not, it’s when should you stretch.
So when should you stretch? After your workout or on your off / rest day.
(Source: Medicine Science Sports Exercise, 40; 1529- 1537, 2008)
