The Three-Minute Stretch Routine for After Your Cardio Workout

We are continually bombarded with contradictory information when it comes to exercise. This is especially true when it comes to the concept of stretching: What kind we should do, how much we should do, when we should do it, whether or not it prevents injury, whether or not it improves sports performance - The list goes on and on.

The current research indicates that one of the best times to work on our flexibility is right after a cardiovascular workout, when the muscles are warm from the increased blood flow. Taking just a few minutes to cool down and work on your flexibility after your cardio workout will help ensure your body functions at its best for many years to come.

Here is a three-minute stretch routine to add to the end of your cardio session:

If we look at the research, a growing number of studies support the value of stretching as a means of keeping our bodies functioning optimally. Flexibility is in fact one of the five components of fitness, so it is important to our overall health and well-being. We want our joints and muscles to move freely through their natural range of motion. When they are unable to do so, dysfunction and pain can occur.

It may sound contradictory, but both inactivity and activity can lead to tight muscles. This includes sitting for hours on end as well as the repetitive muscle patterns involved with exercise. Both can be remedied through stretching.

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