[ES_TRADER]

ive heard differing arguments about when is the best time to stretch when doing a weight lifting.

Some argue stretch before lifting, while some say stretch during sets, and some say stretch after..and some say ALL of the above.

Whats the real answer? when is the proper time to strectch in order to gain optimal muscle build??

[RambleJ]

Originally Posted by richpuer

ive heard differing arguments about when is the best time to stretch when doing a weight lifting.

Some argue stretch before lifting, while some say stretch during sets, and some say stretch after..and some say ALL of the above.

Whats the real answer? when is the proper time to strectch in order to gain optimal muscle build??

I don't stretch at all, but I can't scratch my back without a large back scratcher.
To be honest I beleive stretching does not help build muscle, it will help with flexability and lessen possible injuries. But then again those are just my 2 cents, take them for what they are.

[3onDubs]

^^^ Never stretch your lower back, you want that tight to prevent injury (especially when squatting/deadlifting)


To answer OP's question.....dynamic stretching before your workout, static stretching after

[ES_TRADER]

Originally Posted by 3onDubs

^^^ Never stretch your lower back, you want that tight to prevent injury (especially when squatting/deadlifting)


To answer OP's question.....dynamic stretching before your workout, static stretching after

can you explain dynamic and static in more detail in regards to streches?

[3onDubs]

Originally Posted by richpuer

can you explain dynamic and static in more detail in regards to streches?

http://www.sport-fitness-advisor.com...tretching.html

static is when you reach to the point of tension and hold...

[nightkhan]

stretching isn't really about gaining muscle mass, but more to prevent injury to muscle and joints and loosening up the muscles you'll be using. Like 3onDubs mentioned above, I'll start actually by doing a set of exercise/s with really light weights just to get the muscles started and warmed up, then do dynamic stretches to loosen up the muscles. This combination warms up and loosens my muscle and gets the blood flowing there to prep for the workout.

my old gym teacher showed us pics of one of his friends after a particular accident: the guy started doing bicep curls without warming up. although the weight probably was a bit out of his zone, still shows the dangers of not properly stretching as his bicep snapped and rolled back up to his shoulder. post surgery and healing, the pic showed the injured arm with almost total lack of muscle. obviously this isn't common, but is a risk nevertheless.

after workouts do static stretches to make sure the blood flows and isn't all concentrated in the area worked, and also to make sure the muscles don't stiffen too much around the area to decrease your flexibility.