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
Former Member
For swimming I usually just stretch "during", except for ankle stretches which I sometimes do during the day. I guess you could consider that before or after.
I never do any stretching without warming up first, unless the whole point of the session is stretching (a truly rare occurence). In that case I start out with some very light dynamic stretching to get warmed up.
I've found that stretching after a workout is absolutely essential for running. Stretching and ice baths are what keep me injury-free in that sport. If I could choose only one post-run stretch it would be the one where you touch your toes from a standing position with one ankle crossed over the other. That one is great for the IT bands. Calf stretches are important too, but there's really not much stretching can do for my calves. I need to use The Stick.
I stretch after cycling and weightlifting sessions too, but the focus is mostly on lower back and hips. Sometimes swimming makes me want to stretch those areas too, but usually only when I swim a lot of fly. In general, swimming is an activity that leaves me feeling loose, like I have already stretched.
For swimming I usually just stretch "during", except for ankle stretches which I sometimes do during the day. I guess you could consider that before or after.
I never do any stretching without warming up first, unless the whole point of the session is stretching (a truly rare occurence). In that case I start out with some very light dynamic stretching to get warmed up.
I've found that stretching after a workout is absolutely essential for running. Stretching and ice baths are what keep me injury-free in that sport. If I could choose only one post-run stretch it would be the one where you touch your toes from a standing position with one ankle crossed over the other. That one is great for the IT bands. Calf stretches are important too, but there's really not much stretching can do for my calves. I need to use The Stick.
I stretch after cycling and weightlifting sessions too, but the focus is mostly on lower back and hips. Sometimes swimming makes me want to stretch those areas too, but usually only when I swim a lot of fly. In general, swimming is an activity that leaves me feeling loose, like I have already stretched.
