Question: How much should I be stretching?

The amount that I person needs to stretch will generally depend on the individual. Usually if you hate stretching you need to be doing more of it. Everyone, however, even if you are more flexible should be stretching. Your stretching routine can help reduce pain and improve performance. You most likely do not need to stretch every muscle in your body. Focus on the ones that are tight and causing muscle imbalances. This will save a lot of time. To determine which muscles are tight you should perform a posture assessment. You should contact a personal trainer who is educated in this. He will help determine which muscles are tight and which muscle are stretched out. Once you figure out what you should be stretching you can put together a daily routine. It should be daily to see maximal results. Always warm up prior to stretching. You routine should be progressive just like any other program. Start with 1-2 sets of stretches that are held for 15-20 secs. Gradually you can build up to 2-3 sets for 30 secs. Just like all parts of a fitness program you must be consistent to see the best results.