Stretching

We don’t mean to sound like your PE teacher, but the best way to end any workout is with a stretch. This is where the static stretches – rather than dynamic exercises we began with – are best because the muscles are loosened up and have blood flowing to them.

Working on your flexibility when you’re prepped and primed to do so will also benefit your strength goals: “Stretching increases your range of movement, which in turn allows you to load your muscles with more weight as they lengthen,” says Strong Women trainer Tess Glynne-Jones. “When you’re working out, you’ll find you’re able to move heavier weights, which means that eventually muscle gains will be on their way. Think performance, health and aesthetic progress.”

While they won’t get rid of DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness) immediately, getting in the swing of stretching post-workout will ease pain in the long run by encouraging a better blood flow to the muscles.

How to strength train at home in 3 simple steps