5 Stretching Myths That Have Got to Go

— -- intro:To stretch or not to stretch? That is the age old question. You’ve heard it all. Stretch before your workout. Stretch after your workout. Stretch between each set. Don’t stretch at all.

But it’s just not that simple. With all of the confusing recommendations out there, how do you know what’s right or wrong? While it’s not the most exciting topic in the world, it’s extremely important for anyone to know the different types of stretching and when to do each one.

Here’s everything you need to forget about stretching, and everything you should know instead.

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quicklist: 1category: 5 Stretching Myths That Have Got to Gotitle: Myth: Always stretch before your workouturl:text:

Fact: Do the right type of stretches before your workout. There are two main forms: static stretching (holding stretches while your body is at rest) and dynamic stretching (stretching while your body is in motion). Prior to a workout, it is ideal to perform dynamic stretches, such as straight-leg swings and arm circles.

While it’s true that you might feel more “stretched” after static stretching, these exercises actually lower the elasticity of the muscles, making it a poor way to prepare for a big bout of activity. Dynamic stretching, on the other hand, prepares your muscles to work and increases their core temperature, making them the perfect moves to get you ready.

quicklist: 2category: 5 Stretching Myths That Have Got to Gotitle: Myth: Static stretching is never goodurl:text:

Fact: There is also the misconception that because it isn’t ideal to perform static stretches before a workout, that this type of stretching is “bad.” On the contrary, static stretches are the perfect way to close out your workout, as these moves help cool your muscles down. Set aside 5 to 10 minutes at the end of your workout to do some static stretches.

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quicklist: 3category: 5 Stretching Myths That Have Got to Gotitle: Myth: Stretching before a workout prevents injuryurl:text:Fact: It’s not that simple. The relationship between stretching and injuries is complicated. Certain types of stretching may be helpful for injury prevention if done before some activities (for example, playing sports like soccer), while in other cases (like during cycling or jogging) stretching may have no impact, according to a 2004 review in the journal Sports Medicine.

Most injuries actually happen due to improper technique or warm-up. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t worry about stretching at all but that you should do all three: do the appropriate stretches at the right time, practice proper form and technique, and don’t forget to warm-up.

quicklist: 4category: 5 Stretching Myths That Have Got to Gotitle: Myth: Stretching prevents sore musclesurl:text:Fact: Don’t we all wish this one was true? Unfortunately, while it may feel good, stretching does not reduce delayed-onset muscle soreness. If you’re ramping up intensity of your activity and feeling sore, using a foam roller afterward may work better.

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quicklist: 4category: 5 Stretching Myths That Have Got to Gotitle: Myth: I’m already flexible, so I don’t need to stretchurl:text:Fact: While you may have that flexibility now, over time, that will diminish. Taking the time to do a comprehensive stretch routine 3 to 4 times per week will help you to keep your flexibility. Added perk? This is great for your joints, and may save you from aches and pains later on.

This article originally appeared on Health.com.