Ask the strong man

Q: Is stretching: worthwhile?

A: Stretching is required for top performance. I do two types of stretching before I lift: dynamic and static, in that order. Dynamic stretches lightly work your muscles through the same range of motion as the activity you'll be doing. So walking lunges, or even a bench press done slowly with just the bar, will work. I do three or four different stretches, each for one set of 10 repetitions. For static stretching--or traditional flexibility training--I use a Jump Stretch band ($10-$53 @jumpstretch.com). Since the band gives, it provides tension without stretching the muscle too far--a common mistake that can cause micro-tears in the muscle. I do two sets of 30-second stretches for my biggest problems areas. Although some research disputes it, I believe static stretching before an exercise helps your range of motion while performing the lift, and that can help you move more weight.

Mark Philippi, C.S.C.S., is director of strength and conditioning at UNLV and a two-time finalist in the World's Strongest Man competition.

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