The claim

“Stretching before a workout prevents injuries.”

Mostly false

Evidence confidence Moderate

A systematic review found no consistent reduction in overall injury rates from routine pre-exercise static stretching. Some injury subtypes may differ, and evidence is not a test of every warm-up or rehabilitation program.

The facts

Routine static stretching before exercise has not reliably reduced overall injury rates. This does not mean every stretch, sport-specific warm-up or prescribed rehabilitation exercise is useless.

What this means for you

Do not rely on static stretching alone as protection against injury. A plan prescribed for an existing injury is a separate question.

Your next step

Use preparation suited to your activity; if you have an injury, follow individualized rehabilitation advice rather than dropping prescribed exercises.

Sources

•Small K, Mc Naughton L, Matthews M. A systematic review into the efficacy of static stretching as part of a warm-up for the prevention of exercise-related injury. Research in Sports Medicine. 2008;16(3):213-231. DOI: 10.1080/15438620802310784

Last reviewed 2026-10-01 Suggest a correction →

Similar claims on Stretching & mobility

Movement

“Stretching after a workout prevents next-day soreness.”

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Stretching after exercise may feel pleasant and can address flexibility goals, but it does not meaningfully prevent next-day delayed-onset…

See the evidence

Bottom line on Stretching & mobility

Stretch if you enjoy it or need the mobility, but don't feel guilty skipping it as 'injury prevention' - it doesn't really do that. A few minutes of moving warm-up before exercise does more.