Exercise MYTH #8: Stretching before exercise is essential to prevent injury

The TRUTH: There is no conclusive evidence that stretching prevents injury.

This myth is designed by the enemy to keep you from getting down to business and focusing on your cardio and strength training. Too much emphasis on stretching! The cardio benefit of stretching is almost zero. There is no conclusive evidence that stretching is essential to prevent injury. In fact, there are studies that suggest that stretching actually increases the muscles' susceptibility to injury, which – according to the studies – causes the muscle fibers to lengthen and destabilize the muscle during strength training. Mild stretching should not really be a problem. My recommendation: Warm up the body before stretching, or perform mild stretches until warmed up. Another option is to stretch briefly between sets.

Author: Lt. Col. Bob Weinstein, USAR-Ret.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/fitness-articles/myths-lies-and-propaganda-about-exercise-2066565.html