FITNESS FOCUS - WHY STRETCH?

   Why stretch?

   Professional athletes do it. We should, too.

   Stretching can keep us loose and limber, able to do more. It can relax us, which helps us to sleep and reduce stress. Stretching also releases muscle tension, easing headaches or back pain.

   Just the stress of daily life sets up chronic, energy-draining contractions in many of our 600-plus skeletal muscles. Both laughing and crying release that tension by stretching muscles from head to groin. However exercising does it better, if done correctly.

   Proper stretching before activity can increase flexibility and allow for greater muscle contractions. Baseball players take wide swings with a weighted bat to stretch before batting to allow greater muscle contraction.

   The correct type of stretching is called "static", or stationary. "Ballistic", or bouncing stretches can be harmful to the muscles. It is best to put tension on the muscle for 20-30 seconds to gain optimum results, and move slowly into each stretch.

   Stretching after exercise is also important as it helps to prevent delayed muscle soreness and lessen chance of injury.

   To get your best performance, make sure you S-T-R-E-T-C-H!!

FOLLOW UP QUESTIONS:

1. List 4 benefits of stretching.

2. How do crying and laughing release stress?

3. List the two types of stretching.

4. Which of the two is the correct way to stretch?

5. How long should you hold each stretch?

6. Why is it important to stretch?