Stretching is an active recovery technique that can help the muscles become stronger, longer, and more relaxed. While it has been debated whether or not stretching helps prevent injury (or even creates injury), there are several benefits of stretching on a daily basis.
Increase Flexibility
Whether you are swimming, biking,
or running, most of us can use some help with flexibility. Flexibility can be useful to increase
athletic performance, especially on the bike using the aero position. The more flexible you are, the farther down
you can be positioned on your aero bars, the more aerodynamic you will be, and therefore
the faster and efficient you will be. In
swimming, Ankle flexibility is very important but difficult to do. It should be mentioned that stretching your
ankles can be risky for injury and should be preceded cautiously.
Improve Circulation
Not only will stretching your
muscles improve circulation, but the actual ACT of stretching is a low level
aerobic activity that will improve circulation as well. This will increase recovery and hopefully
performance in subsequent workouts.
Relaxation
Stretching can be a great way to
relax and wind down at the end of the day.
If you suffer from mild cases of certain insomnias (like having
difficulties falling asleep) you may want to include a quiet stretching routine
before you head to bed.
Submit your Workouts to The MCT Triathlon WWW!
When to Stretch
- · At the end of a day
- · On an off/recovery day
- · When you feel very tight
When NOT to Stretch (static)
- · When muscles are seriously sore
- · Before any workout
- · Immediately after difficult/long workouts
Stretching when the body has
already stretched itself out or is already damaged is a sure way to damage the
body more. Also, stretching before
workouts decrease the potential power production those muscles can create. Take a look at MCT Triathlon’s Video
Stretching Special below for a great daily head to toe routine!
VIDEO SPECIAL!
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