Do You Need to Hold a Stretch to Get the Benefit?

Not necessarily.

•    Stretching a muscle to the full extent of your ability and holding it for 15 to 30 seconds is what's called a static stretch, and there's no harm in stretching that way as long you don't stretch until it hurts.

•    A dynamic stretch, like the Standing Cat-Camel, moves a muscle group fluidly through an entire range of motion.

•    Lace your fingers together and turn your palms to face outward in front of you.

•    Reach your arms as far as you can, curving your back and shoulders forward.

•    Hold for about 10 seconds.

•    Now release your fingers, and grab your wrists or fingers behind your back.

•    Raise your arms as high as you can behind your back without releasing your hands so your chest opens and your shoulders roll back.