Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or you’re just starting out on your fitness journey, understanding the importance of properly warming up and cooling down can be a game changer for your workout routine. Stretching before and after a workout is crucial for improving flexibility, reducing injury risk, and promoting recovery. In addition to stretching on your own, stretch therapy can play a big role in improving your progress and reducing your risk of injury. In this blog, we’ll discuss the importance of stretching before and after a workout, as well as, how to incorporate stretch therapy into your workout routine.

Why Should I Stretch Before A Workout?

Prepares the body

Dynamic stretches, like leg swings or arm circles, warm up muscles and increase blood flow, preparing your body for the impact of your workout. 

Reduces Injury Risk

Stretching before exercise makes muscles more pliable and flexible which can help prevent strains and sprains. Jumping right into a workout doesn’t give your body time to warm up which can lead to injury. 

Improves Performance

Increased flexibility and range of motion can lead to better performance and technique during your workout. 

Why Should I Stretch After A Workout?

Reduces Muscle Soreness

Static stretches, holding a stretch for a period of time, help to cool down muscles and reduce lactic acid buildup. Reducing lactic acid buildup can help minimize post-workout soreness and muscle fatigue.

Improves Flexibility and Range of Motion

Stretching after a workout can help lengthen muscles and improve flexibility, which is important for maintaining a full range of motion and preventing injuries. 

Promotes Recovery

Stretching after exercise helps to improve circulation. Improved circulation promotes the removal of waste products from muscles and promotes faster recovery.

Incorporating Stretch Therapy Into Your Workout Routine

Stretch therapy, also known as Fascial Stretch Therapy, is a form of assisted stretching that focuses on more than just muscles but the connective tissue as a whole, also referred to as fascia. Fascia is a stringy sheath of connective tissue that is present throughout the body covering the body’s organs, muscles, bones, nerves, and blood vessels. Stretch therapy’s focus on lengthening connective tissue provides a well-rounded approach to holistic health.

Stretching on your own before and after exercise is a great first step, but incorporating stretch therapy, performed by a professional, creates a more integrated approach. Stretch therapy is performed by a professional who is able to target specific points of the body based on a patient’s specific concerns and goals. Consulting with your therapist about your workout routine, your goals, any previous injuries, and any pain concerns, will allow you to incorporate a tailored healing approach to your workout routine.

Where Can I Find A Stretch Therapist Near Me?

At Advanced Kinetics Physical Therapy we offer stretch therapy services to improve athletic performance, help your body recover faster, and reduce your risk of injury. We offer this service at our locations in Falls Church and McLean, Virginia. If you’re interested in learning more about how stretch therapy can help you, please get in touch with us!