After exercise, muscles are warm and more pliable.
This makes it an ideal time for gentle static stretching.
Holding stretches for 15 to 30 seconds can help maintain flexibility and support joint range of motion over time.
Stretching does not eliminate delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), but it does reduce feelings of tightness and improve body awareness.
More importantly…
It supports recovery by helping your nervous system shift from a high-intensity state into a calmer one.
Slow breathing during stretching encourages relaxation and recovery.
Stretching also provides a structured cool down rather than abruptly ending a workout.
Consistency matters more than duration.
A few focused minutes after each session is more beneficial than occasional long sessions.
