Is Stretching A Bad Thing?

Stretching can be a confusing thing. Most of us who started running 10-15 years ago were told to stretch. There wasn't much distinction between what type of stretch (though it was usually a static stretch). The 'when to stretch' had some variation. Some believed it was better to do it before a warm-up. Some believed you only needed to do it after your run. Also, there were those who believe stretching before or after your workout isn't needed. 

Fast-forward to today. There still are many people who still have the same thoughts about stretching as runners 10-15 years ago. This begs the question - is stretching a bad thing?

*Side-note: What I'm going to say is my opinion. It may not agree with your thoughts on stretching. This is what I've learned over the years and I know it works for me.*

Stretching isn't all that bad. It all depends on what type of stretching and when you should do it.

There are two main types of stretching - dynamic and static. Dynamic stretching is stretching with movement. This doesn't mean touch your toes and bounce. Leg kicks, hip circles, walking lunges and leg swings are all types of dynamic stretches. Static stretches are almost the opposite. These are the more traditional type of stretches that were drilled into everybody's minds years ago. These are the touch your toes and hold for a specific amount of time stretches.

Dynamic stretching is great to do before you start your warm-up. The goal is to help get things loosened up a bit and ready for your warm-up. Usually a couple minutes is all you need. A good way to incorporate this into your regular routine - start dynamic stretches from your car to the starting point of your run, or start them from the locker room on the way to the treadmill.

Static stretches are great for when the run is over and after your cool down. This will help keep things loosened up and not tighten up later on for you. Some good stretches to hit are ones to focus on the hamstrings, abductors, IT band, and quads. There are many ways to stretch those areas. I like to change the type of stretch up every few days. It helps keep things from getting boring.

Stretching does take time to get used to doing. Just like anything else, it will get easier to do and easier to remember to do the more you do it. You have to keep reminding yourself that a few minutes of stretching can help avoid injuries and help keep things loose around those injured areas.