Final answer:
The false statement about stretching is that you should stretch farther when it becomes painful. Stretching should not cause pain, as it is a sign of potential injury. Warm muscles are more pliable and better for stretching to prevent muscle and tendon injuries.
Step-by-step explanation:
Among the statements provided about stretching, the one that is FALSE is: 'When the stretch becomes painful, try to reach farther.' It's important to know that while stretching is beneficial to improve flexibility, it should never reach the point of pain. Pain is the body's signal that you are pushing too far, and continuing to stretch when it hurts can result in muscle or tendon damage.
Warm muscles are indeed more pliable and less prone to injury, which is why stretching should be done when the muscles are warm, such as after a workout or following a warm-up routine. Stretching helps lengthen the muscles and can improve the overall range of motion, thus preventing injuries during physical activities.
Regular flexibility exercise, like yoga and stretching, is great for maintaining a healthy range of motion and preventing strains and tendinitis. It's also essential to incorporate a proper warm-up to increase blood flow to the muscles before engaging in more intense activity. A well-designed warm-up prepares the muscles and tendons for the activity, reducing the likelihood of injury.