STRETCHING MISTAKES YOU’RE PROBABLY MAKING

An Emirati Magazine publication – Released on Jan 10th, 2026 | www.emiratimagazine.com

Stretching is often seen as a cure-all for stiffness and injury prevention, but many people unknowingly make mistakes that reduce its benefits—or even cause harm. One common error is stretching cold muscles. Without a proper warm-up, muscles are less elastic and more prone to strain. Another mistake is forcing a stretch too far; stretching should create gentle tension, not pain.

Bouncing during stretches is also problematic, as it can trigger muscle tightening instead of relaxation. Many people hold stretches for too short a time—less than 15 seconds—limiting effectiveness, while others overstretch for too long, irritating joints and ligaments. Poor posture during stretching, such as rounding the back or locking the knees, can place stress on the wrong areas. Finally, ignoring breathing is a big oversight. Holding your breath increases tension, while slow, steady breathing helps muscles relax. Correcting these habits can make stretching safer, more effective, and truly beneficial for long-term mobility.