When people work out, stretching is often overlooked. Many see it as an unnecessary and time consuming step that doesn't benefit them. However, for serious athletes, and the common individual keeping in shape, stretching is an integral part of any exercise routine.

Stretching before a workout loosens muscles and helps them to feel more relaxed. Stretching will increase your range in motion which as result will minimize risks of strains or tears. Stretching also prepares joints for exercise, once again increasing range of motion and decreasing risks of injury. Stretching will also promote circulation which corresponds to an increase in endurance and performance,

Certain stretches, often called dynamic stretches, prepare muscles for specific exercises and movements. This can prepare you for skilled, sport-specific muscle movements.

It is also important to stretch main muscle groups after a workout. Intense exercise leads to lactic acid build up and muscle soreness, the increased circulation to the muscles induced by stretching will limit the soreness and fatigue in your muscles so that you can exercise and perform efficiency again soon after. Any amount of exercise will require a corresponding amount of recovery. That being said, stretching can seriously limit recovery time.

All in all, stretching is not something you should skip. Be careful to stretch before and after any workout.