The skinny on stretching

I'm bad. I don't stretch. Well, I rarely stretch. I don't know why I'm a rebel when it comes to this practice, I just am. Funny for someone like me, a by-the-books girl, because experts have long recommended stretching before and after exercise. Even in the face of recent controversy over whether stretching has any real benefits, many believe it's a no-brainer. Here's why.

One of the leading causes of injury is limited flexibility. And stretching increases flexibility, reduces tension and tightness, and can help prevent soreness and injury. It prepares the body for physical activity, says one guru.

Stretch whenever you can, says the same guru. Stretch before and after exercise, at the end of a long day, while you're watching TV, when you feel stressed, after sitting for an extended period of time. Warm up first, though. Try walking or jogging in place for three to five minutes.

Is stretching recommended for non-working-out folks? Yep, it is. Everyone can benefit from a little stretch. Stretch first thing in the morning and you'll feel more flexible all day. Stretch at night and you'll get better quality sleep.

Are you a stretcher? Or not a stretcher? Tell us why.