When I was younger I never really understood why stretching was important, but then I heard a great example that illustrated the importance of stretching before a workout.  Think about a rubberband, a cold rubberband does not stretch very well, and it also has the propensity to snap under excess pressure.  And compare that to a rubberband that has been warmed up, it can be stretched much further and is much more difficult to break.  Your muscles work the same way as that rubberband, a warmed up muscle is ready to handle the workout your about to give it.  A cold muscle will be tight and have a tendency to get easily injured.

Incorporating proper stretching exercises into your exercise regime will enhance flexibility and aid in preventing injuries.

Exercise sessions are definitely enhanced by following the proper stretching protocol; start  your sessions with a warm-up and follow them with a cool-down.

The transition from rest to higher intensity workloads and back to rest is most efficient when performed gradually.
Benefits of stretching:
o  Increased muscular suppleness
o  Increased range of motion
o  Increased blood circulation
o  Increased agility
o  Improvement of functional flexibility
o  Improved posture
o  Injury prevention

For your benefit, your program includes both warm-up and cool down protocols.

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