Stretching

We all know that we need to warm up before we work out but what should we include in our warm up? You see some people jump right into a light jog while others touch their toes and pull on their arms. Is one better than the other? There is a great debate in the fitness world about this issue. I can only give you my opinion.

Many strength coaches, including myself, support the use of dynamic stretching. Dynamic stretching increases core and muscle temperature, lengthens the muscles, lubricates joints, and helps decrease the chance of injury. Dynamic stretches use controlled movements throughout the entire range of motion. This is different from static stretches which involves holding the farthest point in the range of motion. It is also different from ballistic stretching which uses momentum to force the body beyond its normal range of motion.

For your future workouts, plan on spending 10 minutes to complete a dynamic stretching routine. There are many stretches out there so pick 4 to 6 and design a personalized routine. I like to use butt kicks, high knees, Frankenstein kicks (shown above), over/under hurdles, walkouts, and frog steps. You can find demonstration on You Tube with a quick search.

Here is a great article by Gretchen Reynolds that is helpful.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/11/02/sports/playmagazine/112pewarm.html?_r=1
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Today's Workout: 20lb Wall Ball 150 reps
Today's Confession: Dunks (a years worth of sugar)