For how long should I hold a stretch?
Asked by cypris on May 16, 2009
in Fitness
I have been told that you should hold a stretch for thirty seconds. Is this accurate? It doesn't seem long enough.
Answer
The current recommendation is to hold each stretch for 15 to 30 seconds, and repeat for three rounds. Research shows that stretch receptors disengage after 30 seconds and holding a stretch longer may lead to muscle spasm. If you don’t have enough time for three rounds, do one or two. Always stretch after, rather than before, a cardio-workout, and don’t bounce or force it. Stretching should feel like a slight pull but no pain. Learn more about total body stretching in the Exercise section at Calorie Count.
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