Am I right in saying that pre-warmup stretching (i.e. cold muscles) is now discredited ? My muscles always feel more stretchable after (gentle) warm-up. I suspect that post-workout stretching is equally or even more important, but have never done it, or rather can never be bothered to (I can't believe I'm the only one there...). Does anyone know when stretching is most beneficial ?
What is the purpose of pre-workout stretching anyway ? I can understand post workout stretching might prevent inflamed muscles from 'healing' in a shortened state (after micro injury), but how does pre-workout stretching work ? - whats it for ? what's it actually doing ? The cynic in me says its doing nothing, and is a waste of time.
I've read that it's a no-no to stretch when you're cold -- I don't stretch before or during a ride; I stretch after.
The last I read (an artcle that quoted a study which involved several hundred army personel), it was suggested that the time of day you stretch (pre, or post workout, or whenever), was not important, but the frequency was. In other words, it doesn't matter when you stretch, just so long as you're warm, and you do it regularly. 🙂
Most studies show that pre workout stretching does not provide any benefit and may cause injury, but that is not a confirmed fact.
My preference and by experience do not believe in pre workout stretching. IMO it is better to warm up slowly and then perhaps incorporate some stretching as part of the warm up, but not stretch while the muscle group is cold. I try to focus the intense stretching at the end of a workout.
The lack of flexibility in a muscle group from the lack of stretching may lead to microtears or strains. So it is important to have a schedule of times for stretching.
Again my belief is to warm up a little before stretching.
Most studies show that pre workout stretching does not provide any benefit and may cause injury, but that is not a confirmed fact.
My preference and by experience do not believe in pre workout stretching. IMO it is better to warm up slowly and then perhaps incorporate some stretching as part of the warm up, but not stretch while the muscle group is cold. I try to focus the intense stretching at the end of a workout.
The lack of flexibility in a muscle group from the lack of stretching may lead to microtears or strains. So it is important to have a schedule of times for stretching.
Again my belief is to warm up a little before stretching.
The following was a thread that I made about a year ago regarding a muscle strain/tear that occurred back before I got into cycling and was only lifting weights.
It was my summation that the tear was a result of over use of a muscle group and over stretching while the muscle group was cold that led to the tear.
The thread may or may not be helpful, but it does have some useful links.
Am I right in saying that pre-warmup stretching (i.e. cold muscles) is now discredited ? My muscles always feel more stretchable after (gentle) warm-up. I suspect that post-workout stretching is equally or even more important, but have never done it, or rather can never be bothered to (I can't believe I'm the only one there...). Does anyone know when stretching is most beneficial ?
What is the purpose of pre-workout stretching anyway ? I can understand post workout stretching might prevent inflamed muscles from 'healing' in a shortened state (after micro injury), but how does pre-workout stretching work ? - whats it for ? what's it actually doing ? The cynic in me says its doing nothing, and is a waste of time.
Anybody know ?
Hi David,
I recently wrote an article on this subject for 'Cycle Coaching' magazine; I will happily send you a copy if you contact me off-list.
