To stretch or not to stretch?  

We all ‘know’ that stretching is good for us, that it helps prevent injury, increases suppleness and improves performance.  But like many other established facts in sport when you come to look for the evidence it is not there.  Scientific studies often produce opposing results.  This is partly due to bias in the way the study is designed but it is largely the result of chance.  By combining the results from a large number of good studies it is possible to reduce this element of chance- a process known as a systematic review or meta analysis. Shrier and  Herbert and Gabriel have done just this to determine if stretching prevents injury. 

Shrier found a total of 14 suitable studies.  Stretching was helpful in 5 harmful in 3 and in 6 there was no difference.  All 5 five positive studies also showed included warm ups with the stretching which may have been the reason for the benefit. Herbert and Gabriel had similar findings.

So maybe we can find more time for running!

Back on the drink  

Dr Bob is ever surprised by the interest that the members of Dark Peak show in their health.  Here is a link to a story that has been concerning one of our health conscious members: Healthy Supping

 The dwarf menace  

Dr Bob is a bit of a little Englander.  You never can be sure of the food, the drinking water and as for the beer……. But there is a new menace for the foreign holiday maker -the Dwarf

Don’t forget the injuries page.  You can access it via the following link: Dr Bob’s injures page .  Contributions can now be sent to me by email at :  DoctorBobRunner@googlemail.com