Stretching won't prevent soreness

Think stretching helps prevent soreness after exercise? Not so, says a recent review of 10 stretching-related studies.

Stretching, either before or after exercise, seems to have little or no effect on muscle soreness, say the results of this review that are really pretty convincing -- for healthy, young adults, anyway. Further studies on other groups are necessary.

Stretching is still good -- it improves flexibility, helps prevent injuries, enhances sports performance, and promotes a sense of relaxation and well-being. Preventing post-workout soreness just isn't one of its benefits.