Our soccer programs at The Edge Sports Center involve more than running around on the field and playing the game. They are designed to help participants become better athletes and improve their overall physical fitness, so every session begins and ends with stretching. We’ve all heard that stretching before and after exercising is important, but it’s also important to understand why.
Learning when to stretch is an integral part of our soccer programs. Here’s a closer look at why this is key to playing any sport.
Why You Need to Stretch Before
Stretching before any strenuous activity—like playing soccer—helps to increase the range of motion in your joints. Increased mobility makes your movements more agile and efficient, which is essential for playing a sport like soccer. It also reduces your risk of injury because your muscles are looser and less likely to strain, sprain, or tear. Stretching before playing a sport like soccer allows you to move more freely and easily, improving your overall athletic performance.
Why You Need to Strech After
Stretching after playing sports is also crucial. After running and moving for an extended period of time, stretching helps to reduce muscle soreness and stiffness. Stretching also helps restore blood flow to your muscles, reducing your recovery time after strenuous activity. Aiding recovery also maintains flexibility and prevents your muscles from becoming tight.
How and When to Stretch
Proper stretching techniques are crucial to avoiding injury. Stretching is supposed to loosen your muscles and prevent injury, but you can hurt yourself with bad techniques. Here are some tips on how and when to stretch:
- Start slowly. Don’t try to stretch too far too quickly. Ease into each stretch and hold it for 30 seconds to 60 seconds.
- Breathe deeply. As you stretch, focus on taking deep breaths. This will help to relax your muscles and make stretching more comfortable.
- Listen to your body. If you feel pain, stop stretching and consult with a doctor or physical therapist.
- Stretch for 5 to 10 minutes before you start exercising.
- Stretch for 10 to 15 minutes after you finish exercising.
- You can also stretch throughout the day to improve your flexibility and reduce muscle soreness.
Soccer Programs at The Edge Sports Center
At The Edge Sports Center, we offer soccer programs for kids and adults to help stay in shape and improve their athletic performance. We also have facilities for strength training and conditioning to assist in recovery and avoid injury. Contact us at (781) 275-9700 to learn more.