22 december 2010 kl 18:37
Researchers say stretching, considered an important part of any athlete's warm-up routine, can actually weaken muscles.
The habit of holding a stretch for 20 to 30 seconds, known as static stretching, has been considered benefitial for priming muscles. However, scientists from the University of Nevada Las Vegas say this should no longer be encouraged.
Their findings highlight that the two common pre-running stretches - for the hamstrings and quadriceps - may actually reduce performance by weakening muscles in the leg.
Kinesiology professor Bill Holcomb, who authored the report, said: "Developing flexibility is important for reducing sports injury, but the time to stretch is after, not before, performance."
Other studies have found that this stretching decreases muscle strength by as much as 30 per cent. Stretching one leg's muscles can also reduce strength in the other leg as the central nervous system can rebel against the movements.
This is a interesting read...Which I agree with, basically the best way to warm up before exercise is using movements/exercises that are relevant to you sport. When you say massage is not beneficial, I totally disagree with. I bet after a massage you can increase your range of motion in numerous muscle groups. I know thousands of athletes that use this form of recovery and to loosen muscles. I have been using massage twice a week for over 10 years. Without this I wouldn't stay injury free for the most part and also the range of flexibility I have.