Best Answers to the Most FAQs About Fitness

What is a good 6 day workout routine for the gym?

Here is a sample 6-day workout routine:

Day 1: Chest and Triceps

• Bench press (3 sets of 8-12 reps)
• Dumbbell flyes (3 sets of 8-12 reps)
• Tricep pushdowns (3 sets of 8-12 reps)
• Skull crushers (3 sets of 8-12 reps)

Day 2: Legs

• Squats (3 sets of 8-12 reps)
• Deadlifts (3 sets of 8-12 reps)
• Lunges (3 sets of 8-12 reps per leg)
• Leg press (3 sets of 8-12 reps)

Day 3: Back and Biceps

• Pull-ups (3 sets of 8-12 reps)
• Lat pulldowns (3 sets of 8-12 reps)
• Seated rows (3 sets of 8-12 reps)
• Bicep curls (3 sets of 8-12 reps)

Day 4: Rest day

Day 5: Shoulders

• Overhead press (3 sets of 8-12 reps)
• Lateral raises (3 sets of 8-12 reps)
• Rear delt flyes (3 sets of 8-12 reps)
• Upright rows (3 sets of 8-12 reps)

Day 6: Abs and Cardio

• Plank (3 sets of 30-60 seconds)
• Russian twists (3 sets of 8-12 reps)
• Leg raises (3 sets of 8-12 reps)
• 30-45 minutes of steady state cardio (running, biking, rowing, etc.)

Day 7: Rest day

Note: Adjust weight, sets, and reps to match your fitness level, and consider seeking advice from a trainer or doctor before starting any new workout regimen.

What is the Best Way to Start a Fitness Routine?

1. Set a realistic goal: Determine what you want to achieve with your fitness routine.
2. Consult a doctor: If you have any health concerns, it's best to get a medical checkup before starting a fitness routine.
3. Make a plan: Create a workout schedule that works for you and includes a mix of cardio, strength training, and stretching.
4. Start small: Begin with a simple routine that is easy to follow and gradually increase the intensity as you get more comfortable.
5. Track progress: Keep a record of your progress, such as how much weight you've lifted or the distance you've run, to help stay motivated.
6. Stay consistent: Consistency is key when starting a fitness routine, so make sure to stick to your schedule.
7. Make it enjoyable: Find an activity that you enjoy and make it a part of your routine, such as dancing or playing a sport.
8. Get support: Find a workout partner or join a gym to stay accountable and motivated.

How Often Should I Exercise to See Results?

The frequency of exercise required to see results varies depending on your goals and starting fitness level, but a general guideline is to aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity exercise per week. This can be broken down into smaller chunks of time, such as 30 minutes a day, five days a week. To see results, it's also important to have a balanced fitness routine that includes a mix of cardio, strength training, and stretching. In addition to exercise, maintaining a healthy diet and getting enough rest is also important for seeing results.

Do I Need to Work Out Every Day?

It is not necessary to work out every day, but consistency is key for seeing results from your exercise routine. Here are some guidelines for determining how often you should work out:

1. Cardiovascular exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity cardiovascular exercise, or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity cardiovascular exercise, per week.
2. Strength training: Aim for at least two days of strength training per week, focusing on all major muscle groups.
3. Rest days: It's important to take rest days between workouts to allow your muscles to recover and prevent injury.

It's important to listen to your body and adjust your exercise routine accordingly. If you're feeling fatigued or experiencing pain, take a rest day or modify your workout. The goal is to find a balance between challenging yourself and allowing your body to recover.

How Long Should my Workouts Last?

The length of your workout will depend on your goals and the type of exercise you are doing. Here are some guidelines:

1. Cardiovascular exercise: A moderate-intensity cardiovascular workout can last anywhere from 20-60 minutes, depending on your fitness level and goals.
2. Strength training: A strength training session can last anywhere from 20-60 minutes, including a warm-up, exercises for all major muscle groups, and a cool-down.
3. High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT): HIIT workouts are typically shorter, lasting anywhere from 10-30 minutes.

It's important to aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week for general health and fitness. More vigorous or longer workouts may be needed to meet specific fitness or performance goals.

How Can I Stay Motivated to Work Out?

1. Set realistic goals: Having a clear goal in mind can help keep you motivated.
2. Track progress: Keep a record of your progress and celebrate small victories along the way.
3. Mix things up: Try new workouts or switch up your routine to avoid boredom.
4. Find an accountability partner: Having a workout buddy or joining a fitness class can help keep you motivated.
5. Reward yourself: Treat yourself to something you enjoy after reaching a fitness goal.
6. Make it enjoyable: Find an activity that you enjoy and look forward to, such as dancing or playing a sport.
7. Listen to music or podcasts: Listening to music or podcasts can make your workout more enjoyable and help pass the time.
8. Get enough rest: Making sure you get enough sleep and rest can help increase your energy levels and motivation.
9. Focus on how you feel: Rather than just focusing on physical results, focus on how working out makes you feel, such as more energetic and confident.
10. Remind yourself of the benefits: Remind yourself of why you started working out and the benefits it brings to your overall health and well-being.

What are the Best Exercises for Weight Loss?

1. Cardio: Aerobic exercise, such as running, cycling, or jumping rope, can help burn calories and improve cardiovascular health.
2. HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training): HIIT is a type of cardio that alternates short periods of intense exercise with recovery periods.
3. Strength training: Building muscle through resistance exercises, such as weightlifting or bodyweight exercises, can help increase metabolism and burn more calories even when at rest.
4. Yoga: Yoga can help improve flexibility, balance, and mindfulness, as well as burn calories and tone muscles.
5. Outdoor activities: Outdoor activities, such as hiking or swimming, can provide a fun and varied workout that can also boost calorie burn.
6. Team sports: Participating in team sports, such as basketball or soccer, can be a fun way to burn calories and improve fitness.
7. Dancing: Dancing is a fun way to burn calories and improve coordination.
8. Walking: Walking can be a low-impact and accessible form of exercise that can help with weight loss and improve overall health.

Remember, the key to successful weight loss is creating a calorie deficit by burning more calories than you consume. In addition to exercise, maintaining a healthy diet is also important for weight loss.

What are the Best Exercises for Building Muscle?

1. Squats: Squats work multiple muscle groups, including the legs, glutes, and lower back, and are one of the best exercises for building overall strength.
2. Deadlifts: Deadlifts work multiple muscle groups, including the back, legs, and core, and can be a great way to build overall strength and muscle mass.
3. Bench press: The bench press is a classic chest exercise that can help build upper body strength and muscle mass.
4. Pull-ups: Pull-ups are a great exercise for building upper body strength, particularly in the back, arms, and shoulders.
5. Dumbbell rows: Dumbbell rows are a great exercise for building upper back strength and can help improve posture.
6. Bicep curls: Bicep curls are a classic arm exercise that can help build bicep strength and size.
7. Tricep extensions: Tricep extensions are a great exercise for building tricep strength and size.
8. Leg press: The leg press is a great exercise for building leg strength and size, targeting the quads, hamstrings, and glutes.

Remember, in order to build muscle effectively, it's important to lift heavy weights for multiple sets and progressively increase the weight over time. In addition to resistance training, getting enough protein in your diet is also important for muscle building.

How do I Increase Lean Muscle Mass?

If you are looking to increase lean muscle mass, there are a few things you can do. A combination of proper nutrition and exercise is key for building lean muscle. Eating the right kinds of food in the right proportions will give your body the fuel it needs to build new muscles. In addition, doing resistance training exercises that target specific muscles can help promote lean muscle growth.

It is important to keep track of your calorie intake when attempting to increase lean muscle mass. Consuming enough protein will ensure your body has the building blocks necessary for new muscle growth while avoiding too much saturated fat can help maintain a healthy weight. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends consuming 1-1.5 g/kg/day of protein for optimal muscle growth results. Additionally, eating carbohydrates before or after working out can provide extra energy needed for intense workouts and aid recovery time afterwards.

What is the Difference Between Cardio and Strength Training?

Cardio and strength training are two different types of exercise that have different goals and benefits.

Cardio, short for cardiovascular exercise, is any form of exercise that increases heart rate and breathing. Cardio exercises, such as running, cycling, or swimming, are designed to improve cardiovascular health and increase endurance.

Strength training, also known as resistance training, involves using weights or other resistance to work the muscles. Strength training exercises, such as weightlifting or bodyweight exercises, are designed to build muscle mass and increase strength.

Both cardio and strength training are important for overall health and wellness. Cardio helps improve cardiovascular health and endurance, while strength training helps build muscle mass, increase strength, and improve bone density. A well-rounded fitness routine should include a combination of both cardio and strength training exercises.

When Strength Training, How Much Weight Should I Use?

Strength training is an important part of any fitness regimen, but knowing how much weight to use can be tricky. It's essential to find the right weights for your individual strength level, as using too little won't challenge you and too much can cause injury. When starting out with strength training, it's best to begin light with 3-5 pound weights and work up from there.

Aim to find a weight that still allows you to complete 8-12 reps of a particular exercise within one set with good form. If the last few reps become difficult during the set, then that's a sign that you're lifting a suitable amount of weight for your skill level. As you get stronger and more comfortable performing certain exercises, gradually increase the amount of weight by 2-3 pounds each week until you reach your desired goal.

How Much Water Should I Drink Before and After a Workout?

It's important to stay hydrated before, during, and after exercise to support physical performance and recovery. The amount of water you should drink before and after a workout depends on various factors such as your body weight, the intensity and duration of the workout, and the environmental conditions.

As a general guideline:

1. Before a workout: Drink 17-20 ounces of water 2-3 hours before exercising and another 7-10 ounces 20-30 minutes before starting.
2. During a workout: If you're exercising for longer than an hour, it's recommended to drink 7-10 ounces of water every 10-20 minutes.
3. After a workout: Drink at least 16-24 ounces of water for every pound of body weight lost during the workout. This can be estimated by weighing yourself before and after the workout.

Remember, the best way to assess your hydration status is by checking the color of your urine. If it's pale yellow, you're adequately hydrated. If it's a darker yellow, you need to drink more water.

Is it Bad to Workout on an Empty Stomach?

Working out on an empty stomach can be both beneficial and detrimental, depending on various factors such as the type and intensity of the workout, individual goals, and overall diet.

1. Fasting workouts: Some people find that working out in a fasted state, such as first thing in the morning, can increase fat oxidation and promote weight loss.
2. Low intensity workouts: For low intensity workouts such as yoga or a light jog, working out on an empty stomach may not negatively affect performance.
3. High intensity workouts: For high intensity workouts such as weightlifting or HIIT, working out on an empty stomach can decrease performance, delay recovery, and increase the risk of injury. Consuming a pre-workout meal that includes carbohydrates and protein can help provide energy and support muscle growth.

Ultimately, it's important to listen to your body and find what works best for you. If working out on an empty stomach makes you feel weak or dizzy, it's best to have a light snack before exercising.

How Long Does it Take to See Results From Working Out?

The time it takes to see results from working out depends on various factors such as the type and frequency of exercise, diet, and starting fitness level. Here are some general timelines for common fitness goals:

1. Weight loss: With a combination of exercise and diet changes, you can expect to see weight loss results in 2-4 weeks.
2. Muscle gain: Building muscle takes time and consistency. On average, it takes 4-6 weeks of consistent strength training to see visible muscle definition.
3. Improved endurance: Improving endurance can be noticed in 2-4 weeks with regular cardio exercise.
4. Improved flexibility: You can expect to see improved flexibility in 2-4 weeks with regular stretching or yoga practice.

Remember, these are just general guidelines and everyone's body responds differently to exercise. The most important thing is to stick with a consistent exercise routine and make gradual progress over time. It's also important to set realistic goals and focus on how exercise makes you feel, rather than just the physical changes.

What Should I Eat Before and After a Workout?

What you eat before and after a workout can affect your performance, recovery, and overall health. Here are some general guidelines for pre and post-workout nutrition:

1. Pre-workout: A pre-workout meal should include a combination of carbohydrates and protein to provide energy and support muscle growth. Good options include a banana with almond butter, whole grain toast with eggs, or a protein shake with fruit.
2. Post-workout: A post-workout meal should include protein to support muscle repair and recovery, as well as carbohydrates to replenish glycogen stores. Good options include a chicken breast with brown rice, a tofu stir-fry with veggies, or a turkey sandwich on whole grain bread.

It's important to note that everyone's nutritional needs are different, and the ideal pre and post-workout meal will depend on various factors such as the type and intensity of the workout, individual goals, and overall diet. It's best to experiment with different pre and post-workout meals to find what works best for you.

How can I Prevent Injuries While Working Out?

Preventing injuries while working out is essential for maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle. Here are some tips to help you stay safe while exercising:

1. Warm up: A proper warm-up can help prepare your body for the workout, increase blood flow, and reduce the risk of injury. A warm-up can include light cardio, stretching, or foam rolling.
2. Proper form: Using proper form while exercising is crucial for avoiding injury. Take the time to learn the correct technique for each exercise, and focus on using proper form even when you're tired or pushing yourself.
3. Gradual progression: Avoid pushing yourself too hard too quickly. Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts to allow your body to adapt.
4. Cross-training: Incorporating different types of exercise into your routine can help prevent overuse injuries and reduce boredom.
5. Listen to your body: Pay attention to your body and how it feels during and after exercise. If you experience pain, discomfort, or tightness, take a break and allow your body to recover before returning to exercise.
6. Rest and recovery: Allow your body time to recover between workouts. Get enough sleep, hydrate, and stretch to help prevent injury and promote recovery.

By following these tips and being mindful of your body, you can reduce the risk of injury and enjoy a safe and effective workout.

What is the Best Time of Day to Exercise?

The best time of day to exercise is the time that works best for you and fits into your schedule consistently. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a workout time:

1. Energy levels: Some people feel more energetic in the morning, while others prefer working out in the evening. Choose a time when you feel most awake and alert.
2. Schedule: Consider your daily schedule and find a time that works best for you. If you're a morning person, an early workout might be best. If you're a night owl, an evening workout might be more suitable.
3. Workout type: The type of workout you're doing can also impact the best time of day. For example, high-intensity workouts might be best done when you have the most energy, while low-intensity activities like yoga or stretching might be better done in the evening to help you wind down.
4. Preference: Ultimately, the best time of day to exercise is the time you're most likely to stick to and enjoy. Find a time that works best for you and make it a consistent part of your routine.

Remember, the most important thing is to be consistent with your workouts, regardless of the time of day. As long as you're consistent and make time for regular exercise, you'll see the benefits.

How Much Rest Should I Take Between Workouts?

The amount of rest you need between workouts depends on various factors, such as your workout intensity, goals, and overall fitness level. Here are some general guidelines for rest between workouts:

1. Strength training: For strength training, it's generally recommended to take 48-72 hours of rest between working the same muscle group. This allows time for muscle recovery and growth.
2. Cardio: Cardio workouts can be done more frequently, as long as you're allowing enough time for recovery. Aim for at least one rest day per week, but you can do cardio workouts on consecutive days as long as you're not overdoing it and feeling fatigued.
3. High-intensity interval training (HIIT): HIIT workouts can be intense and challenging, so it's important to allow for adequate recovery time. Aim for at least one rest day per week, and consider taking additional rest days if you're feeling particularly tired or fatigued.
4. Active recovery: Incorporating active recovery activities, such as yoga, stretching, or light cardio, can help promote recovery and reduce the risk of injury.

Remember, everyone's recovery needs are different, and the ideal amount of rest between workouts will depend on individual factors such as age, fitness level, and workout goals. Listen to your body and allow enough time for recovery to avoid overuse injuries and promote progress.

How can I Avoid Getting Bored with my Workout Routine?

Staying motivated and avoiding boredom with your workout routine can be a challenge, but there are several strategies you can try to keep things fresh and exciting:

1. Mix it up: Try different types of workouts to keep things interesting, such as cardio, strength training, HIIT, yoga, etc. You can also try different styles of each type of workout, such as outdoor running vs indoor cycling.
2. Set goals: Having specific goals in mind, such as losing weight, building muscle, or improving your performance, can help keep you motivated and focused.
3. Find a workout buddy: Having a workout partner can make exercise more fun and help hold you accountable to your routine.
4. Get outside: Fresh air and a change of scenery can be a great motivator. Consider outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, or swimming.
5. Join a class or workout group: Group workouts can provide social support, encouragement, and accountability, which can help keep you motivated.
6. Track your progress: Keeping a record of your progress, whether it's with a workout journal, an app, or tracking your weight, can help you see your progress and stay motivated.
7. Experiment with new equipment or technology: Try out new equipment or technology, such as wearable fitness trackers or virtual reality workout games.
8. Reward yourself: Celebrate your progress and reward yourself for sticking to your workout routine. Treat yourself to something you enjoy, such as a massage, a new workout outfit, or a fun night out.

By incorporating these strategies and making a conscious effort to switch things up, you can avoid boredom and stay motivated with your workout routine.

How can I Target Specific Areas of my Body for Toning?

To target specific areas of your body for toning, you'll want to focus on strength training exercises that target those muscles. Here are a few exercises that can help tone specific body areas:

1. Abs: Crunches, planks, Russian twists, and leg raises are all great exercises for toning the abs.
2. Arms: Bicep curls, tricep extensions, pushups, and chin-ups are great exercises for toning the arms.
3. Legs: Squats, lunges, deadlifts, and calf raises are excellent exercises for toning the legs.
4. Glutes: Squats, lunges, bridges, and leg presses are effective exercises for toning the glutes.
5. Back: Pull-ups, rows, and back extensions are great exercises for toning the back.
6. Chest: Push-ups, bench presses, and chest flies are effective exercises for toning the chest.

It's important to remember that toning specific areas of the body can be challenging and will require consistency and dedication to see results. Incorporating a balanced workout routine that includes strength training, cardio, and stretching will help improve overall fitness and provide the best results. And, it's also important to give the targeted muscles time to recover in between workout sessions.

Is it Okay to Workout When I'm Sick?

It depends on the type and severity of your illness. In general, if you have a mild illness, such as a cold, it's usually okay to continue to exercise, but you may want to modify the intensity or duration of your workout. If you have a more serious illness, such as the flu or pneumonia, it's best to avoid exercise until you have fully recovered.

Here are some guidelines to follow when deciding whether to exercise while sick:

1. Listen to your body: If you feel too weak or fatigued to exercise, it's best to skip your workout.
2. Avoid spreading illness: If your symptoms are above the neck, such as a runny nose or sore throat, it's probably safe to exercise. However, if your symptoms are below the neck, such as a fever, cough, or chest congestion, it's best to avoid exercise to avoid spreading your illness to others.
3. Rest: If you feel sick, it's important to listen to your body and get plenty of rest to help your body recover.
4. Talk to your doctor: If you have a chronic illness, such as heart disease or diabetes, it's important to check with your doctor before exercising, even if you feel well.

In general, it's best to err on the side of caution when deciding whether to exercise while sick. If in doubt, it's always best to consult with your doctor to determine what's best for your specific health needs.

What is the Best Type of Workout for Stress Relief?

Exercise can be a great way to relieve stress and improve mental health. Here are some of the best types of workouts for stress relief:

1. Aerobic exercise: Activities like running, cycling, and swimming can help reduce stress and improve mood by releasing endorphins, which are natural mood-boosting chemicals in the brain.
2. Yoga: Yoga combines physical postures, breathing techniques, and mindfulness to reduce stress and improve mental clarity.
3. Strength training: Lifting weights can help relieve stress by providing a mental break and releasing muscle tension.
4. Outdoor activities: Activities like hiking, rock climbing, and gardening can help reduce stress by getting you out of your normal routine and into nature.
5. Mind-body exercise: Activities like tai chi and qigong can help reduce stress by combining physical movement with mindfulness and meditation.
6. High-intensity interval training (HIIT): HIIT workouts can be a great way to relieve stress by providing a physical challenge and releasing endorphins.

The best type of workout for stress relief will depend on your personal preferences and fitness level. Experiment with different types of exercise to find what works best for you, and don't forget to make time for recovery and self-care to further reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

How Can I Incorporate More Physical Activity Into my Daily Routine?

Here are some tips for incorporating more physical activity into your daily routine:

1. Make it a priority: Schedule physical activity into your daily routine, just like you would any other important appointment or task.
2. Start small: Begin with just 10-15 minutes of physical activity a day and gradually increase the time as you feel more comfortable.
3. Find an activity you enjoy: Choose an activity that you enjoy, such as dancing, hiking, or playing a sport, to make it easier to stick with.
4. Be active throughout the day: Take short breaks to walk, stretch, or do a quick workout during the day to increase your physical activity levels.
5. Use technology: Use a fitness tracker or smartphone app to help you monitor your physical activity levels and set goals.
6. Incorporate physical activity into daily tasks: Take the stairs instead of the elevator, walk or bike instead of driving, and garden or clean the house for physical activity.
7. Exercise with a friend: Find a workout buddy or join a class to make physical activity more social and fun.
8. Make it a family activity: Incorporate physical activity into family time, such as playing sports or going for a hike together.

Remember, physical activity doesn't have to be a chore. Incorporating it into your daily routine can be fun, social, and a great way to reduce stress and improve your overall health.

What are Some Good at-home Workouts?

Here are some effective at-home workouts you can try:

1. Bodyweight exercises: Squats, lunges, push-ups, and planks are all great bodyweight exercises that can be done with no equipment.
2. Yoga: There are many online resources for yoga workouts, and many studios offer online classes.
3. High-intensity interval training (HIIT): HIIT workouts use short bursts of intense exercise to raise your heart rate and burn calories. They can be done with no equipment and are great for improving cardiovascular health and building strength.
4. Resistance band workouts: Resistance bands are an affordable and versatile option for at-home strength training.
5. Cardio workouts: Jumping jacks, jumping rope, and running in place are all effective cardio workouts that can be done at home.
6. Dumbbell workouts: Dumbbells are a great option for resistance training, and can be used for a variety of exercises, including bicep curls, overhead presses, and squats.
7. Pilates: Pilates workouts focus on building core strength and improving posture, and can be done with little or no equipment.
8. Stretching and foam rolling: Stretching and foam rolling are important for recovery and injury prevention, and can be done at home with a yoga mat or foam roller.

Remember, consistency is key for seeing results from your workouts, so be sure to create a routine that works for you and stick with it.

What are Some Good Workouts for People with Limited Mobility?

Here are some workouts for people with limited mobility:

1. Chair exercises: Chair exercises are a great option for people with limited mobility and can be done in a chair or a wheelchair. These exercises may include seated leg lifts, seated arm raises, and seated twists.
2. Tai Chi: Tai Chi is a low-impact form of exercise that is gentle on the joints and improves balance, strength, and flexibility.
3. Water aerobics: Water aerobics are a great option for people with limited mobility, as the buoyancy of the water helps to reduce stress on the joints.
4. Light weightlifting: Light weightlifting with dumbbells or resistance bands can help build strength, improve balance, and increase flexibility.
5. Yoga: Yoga can be modified for people with limited mobility, and can help improve flexibility, balance, and overall fitness.
6. Breathing and relaxation exercises: Deep breathing and relaxation exercises, such as meditation and mindfulness, can help reduce stress and improve overall health.

It's important to check with a doctor before starting any new exercise routine, especially if you have limited mobility. They can recommend modifications and ensure that your exercise plan is safe and effective.

When Should I Stretch When Working Out?

One fundamental part of having an effective workout regimen is stretching. Stretching before and after a workout helps to improve flexibility, posture, and circulation. Knowing when to stretch can help maximize the benefit of your exercise routine.

Before starting your warm-up, start out with a few stretches that are specific to the moves you will be doing during your workout. This helps to increase mobility and reduce the risk of injury by preparing the muscles for exercise. It's best to hold each stretch for 30 seconds or more in order to get a good stretch without overstressing the muscle. After finishing your warm-up and beginning your actual workout routine, continue to take time for stretching every 10 minutes or so in order to keep muscles loose and minimize fatigue.

At the end of your workout session, it's important that you finish off with some good cool down stretches as well.

How do I Prevent or Lessen Muscle Soreness After Working Out?

For many of us, working out is a way to stay in shape and improve our overall health. But it can also come with its own set of unpleasant side effects, like muscle soreness. Although sore muscles are normal after physical activity, there are ways to help prevent or lessen the pain.

One way to do this is by gradually increasing intensity during your workouts. This means starting from an easier level and working up to more difficult exercises over time instead of jumping into an intense workout too quickly. Warming up before exercise is also important as it helps prepare your body for physical activity and reduces the chance of injury or strain on your muscles afterwards. Stretching regularly can also help increase flexibility and reduce tension in your muscles which can make them less likely to become sore after exercising.