Stretching: More Truth

Static stretching doesn’t prevent muscle soreness.

New research confirms what we’ve been saying for years: Static stretching doesn’t prevent muscle soreness. After examining data from 12 studies, Australian scientists concluded that stretching before, after, or both before and after exercise produces little or no reduction in delayed-onset muscle soreness. “In the past, stretching was thought to inhibit muscle spasms, allowing the outflow of lactic acid and reducing soreness,” says study author Robert Herbert. Now scientists think soreness is probably due to muscle damage, which static stretching won’t help, he says. A better way to beat pain: Gradually increase the intensity of any new exercises over a few sessions so your body has time to adjust.

 

All images from Stockexchange.