"Fight training is very extensive, a lot of stretching, a lot of coordination of balance exercises"
-Jason Statham
Do you ever feel like you never stretch enough? When is the best time to stretch? Before training, after training? There is lots of articles out there on the web promoting stretching and or vilifying stretching. Here are some studies that made sense to me. Per Baechle of Human Kinetics, "There is little, if any, evidence that stretching pre- or post-participation prevents injury or subsequent muscle soreness". (Human Kinetics link) So there are not enough studies to suggest that stretching before or after training helps in any capacity. What about stretching in general?
A study by Dr. Ian Shrier, suggests stretching immediately prior to physical activity does not generally improve physical abilities and reduce injuries, but routinely stretching in general does help improve physical abilities and reduce injuries. (Shrier study) Additionally, a study by Luxmi Sharma, concludes daily yoga helps improve sports performance through improved joint and muscular flexibility. (Sharma study) Stretching does make a difference, it appears that a daily stretching routine might be the best course of action. However, I would suggest trying whatever makes you feel comfortable.
Here is a sumo dynamic stretching routine for your pleasure, Youtube.
What are your thoughts?
-Dwight
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