Fit Tip Thursday: The Best Time to Stretch

"To stretch, or not to stretch? That is the question…"

Stretching remains one of the most hotly debated topics in fitness: How to do it, when to do it, and if it is even worthwhile at all. Much of the confusion comes from incorrect analysis of the current scientific research, most often to support a pre-existing bias.

I believe our muscles need to move through their full, natural range of motion and when they are limited, dysfunction will occur. It's simply a matter of to what degree. The explosion of technology and our related sedentary lifestyles are wreaking havoc on our bodies in innumerable ways, including our flexibility.

So, yes, I believe stretching is extremely important to our overall health and well-being. Flexibility is one of the five pillars of fitness for a reason, along with muscular strength, muscular endurance, cardiorespiratory endurance, and body composition.

Exactly when is the best time to stretch according to the latest research? Here is the answer:

Want more health and fitness video tips just like this? Watch more Fit Tip Thursdays for great tips to help enhance your workouts.