Myths About Stretching

Source: Uncovering the Myths About Stretching by Jeffrey Sankoff, MD (Triathlete magazine July 2010)

 

Can’t find the article on-line and I’m sure not typing the whole thing, but will take some excerpts that I found interesting.

 

First, what are the myths.  I’ve always been told that stretching helps reduce soreness, injury and range of motion.  That makes sense to me, but Dr.Sankoff points out that there has been very little scientifically investigation into these claims. 

 

“While it is true that stretching does improve both range of motion and flexibility, this had not been shown to translate to any other objective markers of performance.  Specifically, large trials have shown that stretching either regularly or before strenuous activity does not prevent DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness).  In fact, studies have shown that stretching may be detrimental to performance”

 

Detrimental?  How is that possible?

 

“A great deal of evidence now exists demonstrating that stretching reduces both muscle strength and ability to perform anaerobically…these findings have been constant across numerous types of stretching programs and exercises.”

 

Now I have heard that stretching BEFORE exercise is not good, but I always thought that stretching after is very important.  Dr.Sankoff says stretching doesn’t need to be removed from your exercise plan, but should be done with the understanding of the benefits or lack of.

 

So if stretching helps with flexibility and range of motion, then the focus should be on how flexibility and range of motion help with athletic performance.  At least that’s the next obvious question to me.  Guess I need to research that.