Does stretching burn calories? How many? – GOOD SHAPE

(Lacheev/Thinkstock/Getty Images)

Despite the many discussions about it, adding stretching to your training routine can have some benefits. For example, it is believed to help protect joints, lower the risk of injury and even reduce stress levels.

But what about burning calories: Does stretching help with that goal? Check out:

STRETCHING BURNS HOW MANY CALORIES?

Stretching by itself is not considered a high calorie burning activity. A person weighing 68 kilos, for example, would lose 2.7 calories per minute of stretching. So if she stretched for 10 minutes, she would burn 27 calories.

However, some practices that involve stretching can make you sweat. This is the case with power yoga (or even hot yoga!). One study showed that they are able to eliminate 36 to 71 calories every 10 minutes. For an hour of class, that would be 216 to 426 calories.

TYPES OF STRETCHING

1

STATIC STRETCHING

Static stretching is perhaps the best known. It’s about holding a position for a specific amount of time—like when you bend over to try to touch your feet and stay that way for a few seconds.

This method is usually performed before training or after it, as a way to cool down.

two

DYNAMIC STRETCHING

The dynamic involves gradual and controlled movement. That is, you stretch and move at the same time – which can be a great way to warm up.

3

BALLISTIC STRETCHING

Ballistic stretching also uses movement, but quickly, reaching full range in a short amount of time. If done wrongly and without the follow-up of a professional, it can be dangerous and even cause the rupture of muscles, tendons or ligaments.

TIPS FOR STRETCHING SAFELY

Start slow. It’s easier to work in greater ranges as you adjust to the discomfort of the stretches. Also, keep the movement controlled; Feel discomfort when stretching, not pain. If the second case occurs, seek help from a professional; Keep consistency. Progress usually comes slowly.