So what do you think, is it fact or fiction that stretching your muscles after a workout will reduce soreness? I guessed fact - but I was wrong. According to a recent review of studies from the Cochrane Collaboration, stretching is not the best way to dull post workout pain. Instead, engaging in activities that increase blood flow to your muscles is the best way to ward off soreness. Dr. Rick Wright, of the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at Washington University, suggested:

"To protect against soreness do low-impact cardio, such as walking or the elliptical, for 30 minutes, or indulge in a deep issue massage." - Fitness Magazine

Does this mean you should skip stretching all together? - I wouldn't recommend it. Personally, I'm not a huge fan of stretching because when I'm done with my workout, I want to get out of the gym ASAP. However, stretching is proven to improve flexibility and prevent injury, so I wouldn't trash the post workout stretch just yet. In regards to next day muscle pain, I always pop a couple of Advil and it usually does the trick!
Post A comment: Were you shocked to learn that stretching doesn't stop the muscle pain? How do you fight through after workout soreness?