Is stretching a good idea?
Today, there are 2 opposing schools of thought on the necessity or usefulness of stretching as part of training for athletes, and so for swimmers.
For decades, it was recommended to stretch, but scientists have challenged this habit, and today it is more an individual choice to stretch or not. If I decide to stretch, here are a few tips, principles and basic elements.
Enjoy the reading 😁
What is muscle stretching?
Stretching is an exercise designed to develop your flexibility, prevent muscles pain and help you recover after an effort, whether in a sporting or professional context.
When we talk about stretching, we're talking about making wide movements by extending one or more muscle groups. Stretching requires no external equipment.
Stretching slightly increases breathing and heart rate. On the other hand, it should not normally cause pain, in which case it is best not to maintain or repeat the exercise!
Why stretch?
- Stretching improves flexibility, suppleness and range of motion in muscles and joints, whatever your age. Stretching from an early age can help limit or slow the decline in stiffness and functional capacity.
- When done regularly, especially after exercise, stretching re-oxygenates muscles and reduces the risk of injury.
- Stretching reduces muscular tension that can build up over the course of a day, or after an effort no matter the intensity.
- By improving flexibility, you also improve posture when you stretch.
The benefits of stretching after sport
Incorporating a stretching routine into your daily routine is beneficial for both body and mind, and the effects go far beyond the muscular aspect.
There are many benefits! Here are just a few:
- Improves muscle recovery
- Improves joint mobility
- Injury prevention
- Increased energy level, reduced fatigue
- Improves blood stream
- Improves sleep quality
Types of stretching
There are 2 types:
Maintaining a motionless position. Ideal to improve muscle and joint amplitude and flexibility.
These stretches should always be done after competitive efforts and/or training sessions, on muscles that are already warm.
In motion. Those stretching are good to warm up muscles (e.g. qi gong or yoga).
To do before or to replace a physical activity.
Find the rest of the article, where we discuss the pitfalls and traps to avoid when it comes to stretching.