Function

• Stretching pulls the muscle fibers, causing the length of the muscles being stretched to elongate. With repeated stretching done properly, the muscles gain an increase in their elasticit--thus giving you a greater range of motion. Stretching is done to keep muscles from being stiff or tightening up during physical activity. By increasing your muscles' flexibility and becoming more limber in your movements, physical performance will improve.
  
  

Types

• There are different types of stretches that can work different areas of the body. Yoga is a form of exercise that incorporates a lot of stretching. Stretching exercises in yoga range from beginner to advanced. There are also modifications to certain poses for those who may not be flexible enough to achieve the full stretch. Other types of stretching are ballistic stretching, which involves bouncing; isometric stretching, which focuses on resistance and contracts the muscles; dynamic stretching, which works to increase speed and movement; passive stretching, which focuses on holding a stretch in a relaxed position; and active stretching, which increases flexibility and strengthens muscles.
  
  

Benefits

• In order for a person to perform physical activities at maximum performance ability, it is necessary to have a good range of motion. Having increased flexibility around the joints helps maximize a person's range of motion, thus helping to maximize physical performance. Stretching exercises help keep muscles from becoming too tight, and they also help to improve the flexibility of the joints. The chances of injury during physical activity are decreased when a person has a good range of motion, because movements are more free and fluid.
  
  

Misconceptions

• Not all types of stretching are beneficial. In particular, ballistic stretching can possibly be harmful to those who do it because the bouncing involved can actually cause your muscles to tighten rather than loosen. Repeatedly bouncing up and down in this type of stretch does not give the muscles enough time to relax. Another misconception is that it will take a long time to become flexible once you start stretching. If you incorporate stretching exercises into your normal routine, you will notice gradual increases in flexibility within relatively short amounts of time.
  
  

Warning

• When stretching, as with any type of exercise or physical activity, there is a possibility of getting injured. Overstretching can result in pulling or even tearing a muscle. A personal trainer can help you to perform stretches correctly to avoid injury. If you perform stretching exercises on your own, do not try to force your body into positions that are not comfortable. Start with easy, simple stretches and positions and work your way into more advanced stretching poses as your body becomes more flexible and accustomed to stretching.