Is stretching important to preventing injuries in people who workout?

Yes, having the appropriate levels of flexibility allows the body to move properly, reducing the overall chance of being injured.If the body is moving properly,there is less stress placed on it during exercise leading to a lesser chance of being injured.

Yes. An individualized Corrective Ex program can help prevent injuries that can occur from working out. Utilizing SMR with a high-density foam roller can provide trigger-point like pressure to overactive or tight muscles to improve overall flexibility and performance. Static, active and dynamic stretching is beneficial as well. I hope this helps and have fun.

Stretching of the proper muscles that are shortened or are in tonic spasm may help restore proper muscle balance. Stretching of muscles that are lengthened or around joints that are hypermobile should be limited. Please consult with a Physical Therapist or other qualified health practitioner that can assess your proper muscle length/balance of your body - as each individual is different.

Regular stretching is critical to maintaining normal joint motion, especially in those who are physically active. During physical activity the muscles are constantly contracting and are prone to developing excessive tightness. 

Muscle groups that are especially prone to developing tightness are the:

1. calves
2. hamstrings
3. hip flexors
4. hip adductors (groin region)

So it is especially important to regularly stretch these muscles before and especially after physical activity to minimize the risk of developing excessive muscle tightness.

The combination of 30-60 seconds of self-myofascial release followed by at least 30-seconds of static stretching is an excellent method to maintain and increase flexibility.

Without proper flexibility in these muscles you may develop compensatory movement patterns, such as:

1. knees collapsing inward when squatting or landing
2. heels lift off of ground or toes rotating outward when squatting or landing
3. greater lumbar spine motion

These compensatory movement patterns may lead to increased stress on the surrounding soft tissues and ultimately lead to decreased performance and possibly pain. So be sure to address muscle tightness by incorporating these flexibility techniques (self-myofascial release and static stretching) before and after you exercise.

Stretching can definitely help in the prevention of injuries. Expanding your muscle fibers increases your flexibility and muscles that are fluid and pliable are less prone to injury. Stretching will also help build strength.