4. Is stretching before and after exercise necessary?
We’re often told that stretching our muscles is the best way to avoid aching limbs the following day or injuries during sport. But is this true?
Two studies have both pointed towards an answer: not really. In this article by Claudia Hammond, Rob Herbert from the George Institute in Australia – the author of one of the two reviews – told us that if you enjoy stretching before exercise, you’re fine to carry on, but it probably won't help much. All the evidence points towards little difference in muscle recovery or injury prevention.