Think about cooking a chicken...is it easier just out of the freezer or after it has been thawed?? After it has been thawed or warmed up right?? Well your body is the same way. It is safer and healthier to challenge/stretch a muscle after it has been warmed up. You should warm up first with a few minutes of walking, cycling, or elliptical and then stretch to properly prepare your body for a workout. You should also do stretching exercises at the end of your workout to help lengthen your muscles and keep them from cramping. Stretching cold muscles can cause pain and long term injuries. So even if you work with a trainer and they warm you up, a good idea is to come to your appointment a little early and do your own warm up/stretch program to keep you body healthy and your workouts beneficial.
