The Importance of Stretching and Strengthening Exercises

Information about Stretching Exercise

Strengthening exercises are an important part of any workout routine. Strengthening workouts keep muscles as well as bones strong and healthy. This type of exercise will build mass and tone your muscles, depending on how you perform the movements. Less weight and more repetitions are effective for sculpting and toning, while heavier weights and fewer repetitions can build up muscle mass. Before beginning your strengthening exercises, it is a good idea to stretch the muscles that you will be working. You can also combine stretching and strengthening exercise by stretching between repetitions and at the end of your workout as part of your cool down routine. Stretching with your strengthening exercises will help to ensure that your muscles are less sore after your workout.

How to Combine Stretching and Strengthening Exercise

If you are planning to do some stretching prior to your strengthening exercises, do not begin stretching until you have properly warmed up your muscles. A warm-up can be completed through about five minutes of aerobic activity, such as jogging or jumping rope. You can also use a recumbent bike or a treadmill to do a short warm-up as well. Once your muscles are good and warm, you are ready to begin some light stretching that will prepare you for you strengthening exercises to follow. It pays to take your time during this step and stretch out all the major muscle groups in your body, but if you are pressed for time, you can concentrate on the muscles that you will primarily be focusing on during your workout. There are many good books and videos that can show you the proper way to stretch, or you can work with a personal trainer to find the best routine for your individual needs.

After Stretching: Finding the Best Strengthening Exercises

Strengthening exercise needs to be done with care, since an overzealous workout can lead to fatigue and painful muscles in the aftermath. Always begin with lighter weights, and work with them until 15 repetitions become too easy to complete. It is important to continue to raise the bar on your strengthening exercises to ensure that your muscles are receiving the maximum benefit. That means that your weights should get progressively heavier as you become more experienced with your workout. Strengthening exercises should always be followed with stretching to relax the muscles and avoid pain the day after a workout. Stretching combined with strengthening exercises is the most effective way to tone and condition your body, and reach the maximum health benefits of your workout.