Post Workout Stretching

Stretching is highly beneficial to recovery when done post workout or as part of a cool down routine. During exertion the body tends to follow the path of least resistance, even when that is not an optimal relationship for joints and muscles. This results in relatively inflexible, weaker and imbalanced muscles that may affect surrounding tissues.  Stretching tense muscles allows them to return to a normal state, speed recovery by allowing more efficient circulation and to function optimally. A general cool down may include 5 to 10 minutes of low intensity exercise and/or 5 to 10 minutes of stretching. Unless you are being specific a good amount of time to hold each stretch is 20 to 30 seconds. There should never be pain only a sense of tension and release.