Stretch daily or no?

[kindj]

I have heard that one should go through a stretching routine daily, whether working out that day or not. I have heard an equal number of people say that stretching--much like weightlifting--should only be done every other day, so that the muscles/tendons/ligaments can repair the micro-tears that occur.

Any solid facts out there on this?

Thanks!

[Evil Dave]

First there are two types of stretching, dynamic and static. A short dynamic stretch routine with a few static stretches thrown in wouldn't hurt. I do one daily with my lower legs and feet due to history and poor joints. A good static stretch routine should only be done after your body is really warmed up, 15+ minutes of light cardio, dynamic stretching, etc. Other then that, stretch whenever you feel the need. It's also a good idea to change up your stretch routine on a regular basis, so your body doesn't get into a habit of stretching the same joints in the same manner.

Also, if your looking for a daily or irregular stretch/massage routine check into foam rollers.

[bushido_man96]

I don't know if any drawbacks to stretching daily. I should do it more often, but I don't.

[sensei8]

I also would imagine that as one becomes much older, the regulated stretching would allow one to keep that flexibility. I suppose it's like a body builder who has trained their whole life, and if they don't continue in some type of weight lifting or the like, their muscles go to flab.

Don't keep some type of stretching routine, one loses flexibility.