Why is it important to stretch before doing any physical exercise? Understand the main benefits of stretching for our body

Have you ever wondered why stretching is so important before any physical activity?

Stretching is essential to prepare the body for physical activity, as it helps increase flexibility, reduce the risk of muscle injuries and improve performance during exercise. Discover the true importance of stretching.

The main importance of stretching

Stretching, in addition to being an essential exercise for muscle flexibilitypromotes the stretching of muscle fibers, expanding the range of movements and improving body performance in various physical activities.

This practice contributes to reduce muscle tension, increase joint flexibility, improve mood and prevent pain.

Stretching before exercise It is essential for preparing muscles, preventing injuries and improving the execution of movements. It promotes the flexibility of muscle fibers and works several important structures, such as sarcomeres and connective tissues.

Furthermore, improves posture, increases mobility joint and muscle elasticity. After stretching, you will feel more energetic, less prone to pain, and will have greater body awareness and balance.

Main benefits of stretching

The health benefits of stretching are numerous and essential to enhance the results of physical activities:

1. Increased flexibility: Stretching stretches muscle fibers, increasing their flexibility and preparing the body for exercise.

2. Reduction of muscle damage and risk of injuries: Prevents injuries and muscle strains, as well as improving blood circulation and relaxing muscles.

3. Other benefits: Reduces muscle shortening, relieves tension, improves blood circulation, motor coordination and body warming, in addition to preventing postural problems and developing proprioception.

4. Eases exhausting physical activities: Leaves the body more prepared for intense activities.

The benefits of stretching are also:

1. Prevents injuries muscle and joint sprains, reducing the risk of damage during physical activity;
2. Reduces muscle tensionproviding a state of muscle relaxation;
3. Promotes relaxation of the muscles, relieving the sensation of stiffness and discomfort;
4. Increases flexibility and range of movements, allowing greater joint mobility;
5. Combat shortening muscular, preventing the loss of elasticity in the muscles;
6. Improves blood circulationpromoting better tissue oxygenation and muscle nutrition;
7. Improves motor coordinationfacilitating the execution of precise and coordinated movements;
8. Makes it easier to carry out physical activities exhausting, preparing the body for the effort required;
9. Prevents postural problemshelping to maintain proper posture during exercise and in everyday life;
10. Develops proprioceptionthat is, the perception of the body in space, contributing to balance and stability during movements;
11. Helps in warming the bodypreparing muscles and joints for physical activity;
12. Improves body performance during activity, providing greater efficiency and resistance.

How to do a good stretch?

Set aside at least 10 minutes to practice your stretching. It differs from warming up by promoting muscle flexibility.

While stretching, maintain comfortable positions for a few seconds, focusing on controlled breathing to relax your muscles.

Respect your body’s limits, as range of motion may be limited at first, but over time, flexibility increases.

It is worth mentioning that stretching is a light activity, accessible to most people, but it is crucial to seek professional guidance.

See also: Do ​​you work sitting down? Five-minute walks help you live better, study finds

Source: Dr. Hong Jin Pai