Training tip #5: Stretching

This one isn't easy to write about because there are various study results on whether to stretch or not. The recommendations still changes from year to year.

For decades before more serious research was done on stretching, this action was thought to decrease risk of injury, prevent soreness, and improve performance. However, there are limited evidence supporting (even conflicting with) these opinions.

So, while we are continuing to see headlines for or against stretching, there are a few benefits that is hard for science to quantify:

1) Stretching made our tight muscles feel looser (in other words, relaxing the muscles) and more balanced to other muscles. Thus, making us feel more comfortable whether we are continuing the activities or resting.

2) Stretching feels so good.

Either way, what may the best thing to say is that the best stretching methods are those you customize as your own to meet your personal needs.
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