I feel too relaxed after stretching to workout. Any suggestions?

Yes, try to limit your stretching to a few key areas; for example, only stretch three muscles (holding each stretch for 30 seconds) during your warm-up. Three common stretches include those for the calves on the back of the lower leg, the front of the hip, and the chest. Then proceed to an exercise called a ball bridge (for 12 repetitions) to help get your rear end working. Follow the ball bridge with some single-leg squats (eight on each leg) or double-leg squats to get your body ready for the workout ahead.

You are spending too much time stretching then. Concentrate on only a few muscle groups instead of a total body stretching routine and then get on with the work at hand. Save the total body stretching for an off day.

If you have inhibiting injuries, especially ones that are inhibiting free movement. Take time after warming up your body for 5 to 15 minutes and focus on those tight and/or tender areas. In addition to cardio, you can use a basic foam roller routine (http://www.hfpn.com/library/print.aspx?id=9336) too warm up before a workout. I suggest you perform these basic routines each day, multiple times in a given day as needed. Making this a frequent habit will reduce the necessity for you to spend too much time stretching before your workout and sending you into that relaxed state of avoidance.

Here is a general rule to keep in mind. After stretching, give yourself around 10 minutes for your body to adjust to its new length. This will help in the prevention of unforeseen injuries.

DISCLAIMER The above suggestion is based on similar stretching and lengthening habits I have adapted for myself. Consult your physician or qualified medical practitioner before starting an exercise program.

Stretching does not always have to come directly before exercise.  The most important factor in flexibility (stretching / foam rolling) is to be consistent.  If you are consistent day after day you will see remarkable improvements in range of motion and decreased risk of injury, however right before exercise can cause a few issues.  The advice to wait a few minutes before exercise is good to allow your body to adjust to the new length, however......

I know several people and clients who will do their flexibility work directly before going to bed or as soon as they wake up.  Their flexibility work can be used as a relaxer before winding down for the evening or a way to start off their day.  The most important thing with flexibility is that you are consistent rather than when you do it.

Sure, NASM outlines some ideal ways and times to do it but I have several clients that will spend 5 to 10 minutes a day (away from the gym) and do flexibility work and then simply do some dynamic movements or cardiovascular work to improve blood flow and do extremely well.