The Controversy over When to Stretch

The physiology of warm-up/warm-down

Warm-up
The body requires a controlled warm up period to prepare itself physiologically with proper body temperature, increased vascularity and neuro-sensitization - this results in increased fascial pliability

Warm-down
The cool down period facilitates the removal of metabolic wastes (lactic acid and carbon dioxide) that can cause post exercise stiffness and soreness. Performing AIS after exercise allows the body's muscles, tendons and ligaments to maintain their optimal range of motion.

Rehabilitation
Flexibility promotes improved blood circulation and oxygenation, which nourishes the cells, tissues and organs - ultimately restoring health to the affected region.