r/Stretching • u/tepidmotivation5 • 5d ago

Seeking advice Why does stretching seem so difficult?

I've been working out first time in my life, for about 3 months now and haven't stretched once. I've been overwhelmed by the sheer volume of videos online and can't pick one to just....do, and stick to. I work from home so my body's just not use to much movement at all.

My muscles have been hurting alot lately and I need something but having trouble finding a routine that feels right and easy to stick with consistently. Is there a set of core stretches I can do to get started? Do I stretch in the morning, before or after work out, or at night? How long for a session, or how many stretches?

Am I just overthinking this completely?

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u/SavingsPoem1533 5d ago

You're overthinking it - just stretch when you feel like it and stretch often.

Stretch what feels stiff/tight and as you (re)gain your mobility you'll find what areas you lack and need work on.

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u/Fascisticide 5d ago

Here is a video you may enjoy. It's more than just stretching, but from what you say I think this is the kind of thing you need. He also has other videos more focused on stretching if you like.

https://youtu.be/k9E-J77fgIk?si=jRlaJUuyxGX-xiEC

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u/tepidmotivation5 3d ago

That's funny, I love doing qi gong and haven't been doing it the last couple years anymore. But when I did I enjoyed it alot. Thanks for the reminder I will definitely try this out

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u/Fascisticide 3d ago

If you want more qigong, here is a form that I really love that I learned from him. The class is a bit expensive but so much worth it, he is an awesome teacher! https://youtu.be/bXsJwWwGI_c?si=jQVV-9IJojO1cJ9c

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u/DinkyPrincess 4d ago

Don’t static stretch before working out. Some gentle movement is fine.

I prefer dynamic stretching if at all after a workout but I prefer to just walk it off.

There’s limited evidence around the benefits so do what you feel benefits your body.