Stretching advice has changed over the years, and the answer depends on the kind of stretch.
Before: keep moving
Dynamic stretches such as leg swings and walking lunges raise body temperature and prepare muscles for movement.
Long holds can wait
Holding a stretch for a long time right before sprinting or lifting may briefly reduce power for some people.
After: improve flexibility
Static stretches after exercise, or in a separate session, are a good time to work on range of motion.
Listen to your body
A stretch should feel like tension, not pain. General information, not medical advice.
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- 1 Sample source: background reference
- 2 Sample source: official or primary document
- 3 Sample source: explainer from another publisher (facts only)
