The Importance of Stretching Prior to Working Out

Stretching is of the utmost importance for all athletes regardless of fitness level or experience. I’ve seen too many instances where experienced bodybuilders and weight trainers end up tearing or severely pulling a muscle only because they did not take the few minutes to stretch and warm the body up properly prior to intense exercise. I, myself have had to learn the hard way on more than one occasion. It simply is not worth it to risk injury and be on the shelf for weeks at a time to save a few minutes at the gym. So don't be over anxious to dive into the heavy sets. Stretching also has many other benefits including elongating the muscle and making the muscle more pliable which is always a benefit for weight trainers, especially bodybuilders.

Remember, take the time to stretch and really get the blood flowing through your muscles before you start exercising. You’ll take a huge step towards injury prevention. Don’t forget to stretch you muscles during your workout in between sets. You’ll feel the benefit throughout your entire workout.

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Working Out Should NOT Be Painful!

Working out should be a challenge, but it never should be painful. Being a little bit sore is normal, but if you are in pain after exercising, then you are probably doing something wrong. Here are a few things to remember if you are feeling pain.


* Make sure you are exercising at the proper level. Do not try to overdo yourself. Starting out slow will benefit you in the end

* Stretching before and after working out will reduce some pain that you may be feeling, and it will allow the muscles to relax.

* Give your body enough time before workout in order to rest. Working out the same muscles too often will wear them down. Try to work different muscles when you go, instead of working all the muscles all the time.

* Lastly, use proper form! There is no use in executing an exercise if you are not using an adequate form. Using improper form can cause added injuries to the body and more pain.