Stretching can lead to better posture, fewer aches and pains, greater confidence, and a cheerier outlook on life.

What do you do after you finish working out? It is so easy to forget to stretch. It’s often overlooked because the results are not as visible as other rigorous exercises —or so you thought.

Most people just walk it off and relax. Maybe take a shower or grab a quick snack to refuel.

However, that may not be the smartest choice.Think of stretching as a way of resetting and gaining equilibrium after putting your body through so much stress.

This post will let you know the top  5 reasons why it is important to stretch after a workout.The reasons range from reducing soreness to increased productivity, stress reduction and improved body posture.

IMPROVES POSTURE – Stretching the muscles of the lower back, chest, and shoulders can help keep the spine in better alignment and improve overall posture by relieving aches and pains.

With reduced pain, there is a reduced desire to hunch or slouch.Stretching helps ensure correct body posture, people tend to stand up straighter particularly if you focus on stretching backs, shoulders and chests.

INCREASES FLEXIBILITY-Developing body flexibility is no less essential than strength or endurance training, but why is it so important you might ask?

Flexibility will increase the more you stretch, this will, in turn, enable you to exercise more effectively.  An effective flexibility training program can improve your physical performance and help reduce your risk of injury.

REDUCES SORENESS- During an intense workout, muscles go through numerous contractions which leave them in a ‘ miss-shaped’  state, which is why you will feel stiffness and soreness if you don’t try and rectify the state by stretching.

Stretching before and after a workout gives your muscles time to relax, increases in blood flow increase nutrient supply to the muscles and relieve soreness in the muscles.

REDUCES RISK OF INJURY-You reduce the risk of injury as you will have an improved range of motion, which in turn decreases resistance on your muscles.

Static stretching is suitable for after exercise and each time you go into a stretch hold for 25 to 30 seconds, just enough time for the muscle to regain its shape

PROMOTES BLOOD CIRCULATION – Stretching increases blood flow to the muscles. Blood circulation helps promote cell growth and organ function.

The heart rate will also lower since it doesn’t have to work as hard and blood pressure will become more even and consistent.

Not only will the tips above help reduce post-workout soreness and shorten recovery time, but they will improve overall health.