Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is a primary stretch?

Q: What is the difference between a stretch and an exercise?

Q: What about upper-body stretches? Don’t the muscles of the upper extremities need to be stretched?

Q: Are there different stretches for different sports?

Q: How long do you hold a stretch?

Q: Are stretches and warm-ups the same thing?

Q: What is a good warm up?

Q: How do I stretch my Iliotibial band?

Q: What is the best stretch for the Achilles?

Q: My doctor says that children don’t need to stretch, why is that?

Q: Are the stretches different for children?

Q: How long before my actual participation in sports should I do my stretches?

Q: If I’m sore the next day after stretching, am I doing something wrong?

Q: I have arthritis, should I be stretching?

Q: What if the muscles hurt during a stretch?

Q: Will stretching prevent soreness after a workout?

Q: After the first tension releases, should I repeat the stretch?

Q: I prefer to wear 3-inch heels. My trainer says I should do the calf stretch at the end of each business day. Is this necessary?

Q: I teach aerobics classes. How can I time stretches for the group that are effective for the individual?

Q: Are any standing hamstring stretches effective?

Q: I have a tight schedule and attend aerobics classes. I often skip the stretches. Is it necessary to do them after every exercise session?

Q: Should I stretch before or after running? I have been told not to stretch before I run because it may cause injury.

Q: Why do my calf muscles cramp when I do my hamstring stretch?