Is stretching a waste of time?

If you are stretching before a run the same way you stretch after one, you are actually making things harder on your body.

This video breaks down why static stretching before a workout works against you and what to do instead to actually prepare your muscles to move.

🔬 THE KEY PRINCIPLES
Cold muscles are stiff muscles. When you hold a static stretch before a workout, your body actually fights it through mechanisms designed to protect the muscle from overstretching. Dynamic stretching works with your body instead of against it, moving continuously through a range of motion to warm up the exact muscles you are about to use.

✅ THE SIMPLE RULE
Dynamic stretching before. Static stretching after. Save the long holds for when your muscles are already warm and ready to actually change.

❓ COMMON QUESTIONS
Is stretching before a run bad? Static stretching on cold muscles is ineffective and can work against you. Dynamic stretching and mobility work is what your body needs before activity.

What is the difference between static and dynamic stretching? Static stretching involves holding a position for 30 to 90 seconds. Dynamic stretching involves moving continuously through a stretch without holding it.

How should I warm up before a run? Focus on dynamic movements that target the lower body and mimic the motion of running before you head out.

This week’s video is: Should you stretch before a run?

Here’s what you’ll learn:

🧠What is the best thing to do before a run to loosen up

💪 Why might stretching be a waste of time?

🏃 Examples of dynamic warm up exercises to do before a run

📺 Watch it here: