Dynamic stretching is a series of controlled movements that warm up the muscles and prepare them for strenuous activity. These exercises are designed specifically to move a group of muscles or a joint through a challenging movement that repeats. This forces the body and the muscle tissue to activate and prepare for more difficult and strenuous activities. The stretching loosens up your muscles and increases their temperature, which helps them function better under stress. These exercises also can increase your joint range of motion. All of these effects reduce your risk for injury.

This is different than the better-known static stretches, which involve forcing the muscles to relax and lengthen by holding a single position for a period of time. While this is still popular for a warm-up and does have some merit for athletes, these stretches are not as beneficial before starting athletic activities as their dynamic counterparts. If you’d like to learn more about dynamic stretching, contact the Podiatry Associates, P.C. offices in Castle Pines, Cherry Creek, and Parker, CO. Just call (303) 805-5156 to make an appointment with us.