What should you avoid during stretching to prevent injury?

Bouncing during stretching, often referred to as ballistic stretching, can significantly increase the risk of muscle strains and injuries. This method of stretching involves rapid, jerky movements that can cause the muscles and tendons to stretch too quickly, leading to tears or pulls. Instead, static stretching, where you hold a stretch without movement, is recommended for increasing flexibility in a safer manner.

Breathing deeply is generally encouraged during stretching as it helps to relax the muscles and improve oxygen flow. Stretching cold muscles is also known to be risky; however, it pertains to warm-up routines rather than the act of stretching itself. Stretching both sides equally is a good practice to maintain balance and avoid imbalances in strength and flexibility in the body. Thus, avoiding bouncing is crucial to enhancing safety and effectiveness during stretching sessions.