Hi everyone! I recently started working out and I am not sure if I should be stretching before and after my workouts. I don't want to injure myself or hinder my progress. What are your thoughts on stretching? Is it important? And if so, what are some good stretches for different areas of the body? I really appreciate any advice or tips you can give me on this topic. Thank you so much!

Hello, everyone! I have been working out for a few years now, and I can say that stretching is essential for injury prevention and muscle recovery. When I started, I neglected stretching because it seemed like an extra ten minutes that was not necessary. However, due to persistent joint and stiffness pain, I decided to incorporate stretching into my routine, and it made a great difference.
I usually start with mobility exercises to help lubricate the joints and increase range of motion. Then I move on to dynamic stretching, which is great for activating the muscles before the workout. Afterward, I focus on static stretching post-workout. Some of my favorite stretches include hamstring stretches, shoulder stretches, and hip openers.
Overall, stretching is an essential part of a workout routine that shouldn't be neglected. It helps to prepare the body for exercise and reduces the risk of injury while also improving flexibility and recovery. So, make sure to include stretching in your workout routine!