We’ve all had the question at some point in our life. What are the benefits of stretching? Is it necessary? I mean, I just want to lose fat and build muscle. What does stretching have to do with it?

The truth is that working out is a complex science and it’s not just about lifting weights and putting them down. Stretching is necessary for everyone who is exercising, not just for ballet dancers and gymnastics athletes.

Initially, there are two types of stretching.

• Dynamic Stretching
• Static Stretching

Each serves a different role in our training routine.

But why Thanos, I don’t believe you.

Why should I include them in my workouts?

I’m glad you asked!

Benefits of Dynamic Stretching

1. Flexibility

Dynamic stretching involves moving parts of your body through a full range of motion to gradually increase reach, flexibility, and readiness. It’s performed before a workout to prime your body for the physical demands ahead.

2. Warm Up

Consider this: how could someone lift heavy weights or engage in intense exercises without first warming up their muscles, tendons, and joints? Dynamic stretching is essential in this preparation, serving as a bridge between inactivity and the rigors of a workout.

3. Muscle-mind connection

Often, dynamic stretches mimic the movements of the exercises you’re about to perform, effectively preparing both your body and mind for what’s to come. This approach not only enhances flexibility and range of motion but also improves neuromuscular coordination, leading to better balance and agility.

4. Safety

By incorporating dynamic stretching into your pre-workout routine, you set the stage for a more effective, efficient, and safer workout.

Benefits of Static Stretching

Static stretching, on the other hand, involves holding a muscle in a single position for a set period, usually between 15 to 60 seconds, to increase flexibility and alleviate muscle tightness. Unlike dynamic, static stretching is typically done after a workout to help the body wind down and recover.

5. Muscle relief

Imagine this: after pushing your muscles to their limit during a workout, they’re tight, fatigued, and in need of relief. Jumping straight into rest without addressing that tension can lead to stiffness and discomfort later on. This is where static stretching comes into play, providing a necessary cool-down that helps muscles gradually return to a relaxed state. Think of it as the bridge that connects your workout and your recovery.

6. Impose Discipline

Be real with yourself, nobody likes stretching either before or after the workout. But what separates the average gym bro from an athlete is discipline.

Discipline is not doing what you feel like doing when you feel like doing it. It’s about doing what needs to be done. Stretching is necessary. You may not like it, but it is. And it’s relatively easy. It doesn’t require a lot of mental work to add it to your routine. It enhances however your character because you do it even though you would like not to.