Finding enough time to simply fit in a workout with a busy schedule is hard enough, so many people skimp on warming up before and stretching after exercise to save time.

But warming up and stretching are an important part of any workout and is emphasized at our new patient orientation classes wereby we go over how to create a fitness you reoutine you can stick with.

So, the simple answer to the ever-present question "Are warming up and stretching really necessary?" is: Yes.

Your warm-up routine prepares your body and mind for the workout ahead. Before you workout, do some warm-up exercises that complement the activity you are about to engage in. You don't want to jump into hardcore stretching when you have cold muscles, as that can lead to injury. Dynamic warm-up moves are best, since you want to increase your heartbeat and body temperature and loosen tight muscles so that you are less prone to injury when you workout. For example, walking or light jogging is a great warm-up for running. Before you do yoga, get your joints and body ready by doing things such as wrist and shoulder circles and wall push-ups. Before you jump into weight training, do some cardio like jumping jacks or gentle jogging. You want to warm up your muscles, joints and ligaments, so they aren't jumping into working out cold. Warming up properly will decrease your risk of injury, improve your performance during your workout and decrease muscle stiffness. And it gets your head in the game for the workout ahead.

Stretching After You Workout

Your body is warm and limber after working out, so that is the time for some static stretching (versus the dynamic warm-up moves you did prior to your workout.) Your body is now ready for moves geared at cooling down. You get to focus on downshifting, breathing and relaxing more. Post workout stretching can be held for longer amounts of time and will grant the benefit of improved flexibility over time. You don't want to bounce when you stretch. Hold a stretch to the point of feeling a slight "pulling" but not pain. Start by holding each stretch for 30 seconds and increase as you learn what works for you. Stretching post exercise helps you bring your body and mind back into balance and feels great. Like warming up prepares you for working out, cooling down and stretching prepares you to transition back to your day.