Whenever we partake in sports, our coaches will always make us stretch before and after exercising. But does anyone truly know the reason why we are being made to do this? Well, today we are going to share with you why stretching is so important before and after exercise!

Stretching Before Exercise
Stretching before exercise can also be known as a warm-up. This is the process of essentially gently warming up your muscles before you exercise. You are getting them moving, ready for the exercise that is coming up.

Stretching After Excercise
Stretching after your exercise session has been completed can also be known as a cool-down session. This is essentially the same process as the warm-up session, however, you are slowing your muscles down. You will be using this cool down session to calm your muscles down, showing them the exercise session is complete. Helping them to be ready for normal day to day activities.

But Why Is Stretching Important?
Stretching before and after your exercise is important for one main reason. It helps to prevent you from gaining serious injuries to your muscles. During exercise sessions you will be using your muscles more than normal, meaning it is likely that you will gain a small injury from the session. The most common issues are strained muscles or general aching.

Stretching before and after your sessions will help to prevent this. As you are easing your muscles into the exercise and then easing them out. There will be no sudden shock to your muscles when exercise is randomly placed onto them. This preparation is key for keeping your muscles safe during your sessions of exercise. You should spend at least 5 minutes before and after your exercise session to ensure your body gains the most from the session.