My Not-Remotely Secrets to Losing Weight (Part 6)

Stretching is uncomfortable, to put it lightly. Contorting in weird positions that usually make it hard to breath is simply not fun, nor does it seem all that challenging. It is, despite the negativity, extremely important.

I'll start this whole thing off with a link, again to Trainer David's Youtube page, but specifically: Pre & Post Workout Stretching

I won't cover what he does in his video for a variety of reason, including eliminating redundancy and the fact that he's the expert. I just want to talk about my stretching routine and how it's helped me. Back when I started all this, I couldn't touch my toes and didn't know how to stretch properly. After each workout, I was extremely sore and tight. This was all because, as the internet meme goes, I was "doin' it wrong." I'd stretch cold, first thing, go work out, then leave. I was always sore the next day, and I never got any more flexible. That's now changed, largely thanks to that video.

I've probably mentioned this already, but my routine goes like this: cardio, stretch everything, lift, stretch the muscle groups used during lifting. Since starting that, I now grab the back of my foot just to prepare for stretching. I took his advice, combined it with what I've learned of myself to reach my current technique.

What I like to do is stretch to two separate levels. This came out of two things: learning that there's such a thing as a "stretch reflex" and a desire to get the most out of stretching. The stretch reflex does about what you'd think, when you stretch a muscle the stretch reflex causes it to contract in response. That's generally why that initial reach is more comfortable than holding the position. So, what I do is reach to a point where it is mildly uncomfortable then wait for the discomfort to subside, then really stretch. Both points are held for 10 seconds. Those last 10 seconds are uncomfortable, and hard to maintain, but so effective. I've progressed such that I can fold my fingers over my toes with ease, and as the point I wait before really stretching.

Finally, I want to address the foam roller that Trainer David uses in his video. That little invention is like having your own personal masseuse. You control the pressure and placement and only ever have to pay one time. Back sore? Roll it. Legs sore? Roll them. I highly recommend picking one up. In addition to how Trainer David uses it, use it immediately if you notice soreness while working out. It can really help out with next-day soreness. Of course, use it then too.

Up next, quality of life changes