Stretching - More Important Before Workout Or After?

Re: Poll - Multiple answers can be made in the poll - select all that apply. I have heard people say it's better to stretch before workout and others say it is better to stretch during/after workouts. I have also heard people say stretching before is a good way to hurt yourself. I have always believed stretching before workout is better and have swum better. I wanted to get your feedback and links if any supporting your views. Thanks
Parents
  • Some great input- I appreciate it. Keep them coming. I think i will continue to do stretching before and during and add after workout. I had to google ballistic stretching and found this: =========================== en.wikipedia.org/.../Ballistic_stretching Ballistic stretching is a form of passive stretching or dynamic stretching in a bouncing motion. Ballistic stretches force the limb into an extended range of motion when the muscle has not relaxed enough to enter it. It involves fast "bouncing" movements where a double bounce is performed at the end range of movement. Ballistic stretching should only be used by athletes who know their own limitations and with supervision by their trainer. Ballistic stretching has been found to be hazardous towards the body. It can injure vital muscles and nerves with the sharp jerking movements. It is even possible for tissue to be ripped off the bone. ================================================ I realize anything done the wrong way can hurt you, and know Rich has great knowledge and experience in swimming so I am taking the Wikipedia reference with a grain of salt.
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  • Some great input- I appreciate it. Keep them coming. I think i will continue to do stretching before and during and add after workout. I had to google ballistic stretching and found this: =========================== en.wikipedia.org/.../Ballistic_stretching Ballistic stretching is a form of passive stretching or dynamic stretching in a bouncing motion. Ballistic stretches force the limb into an extended range of motion when the muscle has not relaxed enough to enter it. It involves fast "bouncing" movements where a double bounce is performed at the end range of movement. Ballistic stretching should only be used by athletes who know their own limitations and with supervision by their trainer. Ballistic stretching has been found to be hazardous towards the body. It can injure vital muscles and nerves with the sharp jerking movements. It is even possible for tissue to be ripped off the bone. ================================================ I realize anything done the wrong way can hurt you, and know Rich has great knowledge and experience in swimming so I am taking the Wikipedia reference with a grain of salt.
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