Stretching should be practiced on a regular basis. Stretching stimulates circulation and can relieve many aches and pains. It also loosens up ligaments, joints and muscles.

I personally stretch before and after everytime that I exercise. The older that I get I have noticed that the need for me to stretch increases. I used to never stretch before being active, but now I feel like I have to in order for my body to work. It is also necessary for my to stretch to help prevent any injuries.

Your last statement is probably the biggest reason why the average person should stretch. By stretching you are keeping your ligaments and muscles looser and less prone to injury. Stretching in the morning allows more blood flow to go through the body and lubes your body up. You can do most stretches in bed if you want to. Pulling your knees into your chest then leaning them side to side while keeping your shoulders on the bed, stretching one leg across the other, doing a few pelvic tilts, giving yourself a big hug then pretending to take your shirt off over your head, ankle circles... these are all easy stretches that you can do that take 30 seconds that will have you body saying, "Thank you."