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STRETCH or LIFT? (How about BOTH)
Did you know that resistance training IS stretching with a load? That's right.. All this time you have been avoiding this work because you need more stretching. Ok, so there is a BIG difference in how resistance training should be performed in order to get that stretch effect, but I almost never see uncoached clients doing so. Stretching is a hot topic. Clients ASK for stretching as IF it's something completely different than what actually should happen during your gym experience, and It's a common misconception among new or potential clients that stretching is more valuable than resistance training. While stretching has its benefits, resistance training is essential for overall fitness and health. By definition, resistance training increases muscle strength by making your muscles work against a weight or force, and it inherently involves stretching.
One of the initial lessons I teach new clients is the importance of the eccentric, or "stretch," portion of the lift. This phase, where the muscle lengthens under tension, is crucial for building strength and muscle mass, but it requires for the muscle tissues to lengthen to do so. Placing more emphasis on the eccentric part of the lift will definitely result in a feeling of stretch.
Resistance training not only improves strength and muscle tone but also enhances flexibility and joint health. By integrating eccentric-focused exercises into their routines, clients can achieve the benefits they seek from stretching while also gaining the advantages of resistance training.
All this time, you may have been avoiding weight training because you believed you needed more stretching, especially since you were experiencing pain and restricted movement. However, you might have been avoiding the very thing that could have significantly improved your life.
Don't misunderstand me; we do not avoid stretching. Stretching has its place and benefits, but resistance training will definitely give you the results you were hoping for while making you stronger at the same time. Chronic pain will become a thing of the past as you move through a personalized training plan that evolves and changes with your continued progress and improvement.
While stretching (without resistance) may provide temporary relief, it often doesn't move the "needle" in terms of long-term improvement. Resistance training, on the other hand, addresses the root causes of pain and restriction by strengthening muscles, improving flexibility, and enhancing overall body function. This comprehensive approach ensures that you achieve lasting relief and a higher quality of life.
So the next time you need to choose between stretching or strengthening, pick the “BOTH” option. Need some help with this? We can show you what this looks like in terms of a meaningful training plan. Schedule a Discovery Call today and learn more about stretching under load.
