Usually when you want to develop more strength and power you will spend most of your time lifting weights. You will push yourself as much as you physically can. Or if you want to improve endurance you will do some cardio, interval, and even HIIT training. Lets say you want to shed some excess layers of body fat, you will find yourself toning, using low weights, and doing hi reps.

What most people don’t do, however, is stretch.

Sadly said, its usually the men that think that stretching isn’t a requirement (this isn’t to say that some men who don’t stretch aren’t amazingly strong…my husband included ha ha). This could be because its less intense and not “suited” for their current goals (ie weight gain, building muscle mass etc). What many don’t realize, though, is that stretching isn’t only a great way to cool down from a workout, but it can actually help make you stronger.

“A 2010 study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that regular stretching actually enhances performance. The study’s participants were split into two groups: Group 1 performed a resistance-training workout 3 times a week; group 2 performed an identical resistance program but also incorporated a stretching regimen twice a week on days with no strength training…All participants experienced strength increases, but the stretching group’s gains surpassed the resistance-only group in every exercise tested. “ Source

Its hard to know your true potential in the gym if you don’t do a combination of both stretching and strengthening your muscles. I know the times I have been the “strongest” physically have been when I have kept up a healthy Yoga/Pilates exercise regime along with all of my other training.

So get out there and STRETCH!