Best Time of Day to Stretch for Maximum Flexibility Gains.

Hey Flexy Friends! 

If you've ever wondered when is the best time to stretch to actually get more flexible, you're not alone. This is one of the most common questions I get from my aerial and flexibility students, and the answer might just surprise you.

Let’s break it down--science, real-life practice, and a sprinkle of personal experience (because ya girl stretches like it's her job… oh wait, it is).

Morning Stretching: The Wake-Up Call Your Body Might Need
First off, morning stretching can feel amazing—especially if you wake up tight, sore, or like a human pretzel that slept wrong on a cruise ship bunk bed (been there).

Pros of Stretching in the Morning:

• Helps wake up your body and mind
• Can reduce that stiff, “robot” feeling
• Sets a mindful tone for your day
• Great for dynamic stretches or mobility flows (not deep static stretching)

- Important: Your body temperature is lower in the morning, and your muscles are more stiff. That means morning isn’t ideal for deep flexibility work—but it is amazing for gentle movement and mobility.

Some of my favorite morning stretch tools:

• Yoga Mat with Alignment Lines – makes it so easy to stay centered
• Foam Roller (Amazon Basics) – I love rolling out tight spots before I move
• Back Warmer Belt – keeps your spine nice and toasty while you stretch

Evening Stretching: The Flexibility Sweet Spot

Okay, here’s the gold: evening is actually the best time of day for deep flexibility gains.
Here’s why:

• Your muscles are warmer and more pliable after a full day of movement
• Body temperature peaks in the late afternoon/evening = optimal stretch time
• You’re less rushed, more relaxed (hello, parasympathetic nervous system!)
• Great way to wind down and prep for better sleep

 
If you’re working on big goals—like splits, backbends, or deep shoulder mobility—THIS is your moment.
 
Pro tip: Add a little heat for even deeper gains. I love using a heat pack or even doing my stretch routine after a warm shower.

My must-haves for evening stretching sessions:

• Stretching Strap with Loops – total game changer for splits and hamstring work
• Infrared Heating Pad – I use this on my back before cheststands and it’s heaven
• Resistance Bands Set – awesome for strength + stretch work

So... When Should YOU Stretch?

Here’s my advice:
👉 Do light, dynamic stretching in the morning (think mobility, foam rolling, yoga flow)
👉 Save deep flexibility sessions for late afternoon or evening when your body is warm and you can go deeper safely
But hey--the best time to stretch is also when you’ll actually do it! If your schedule only allows mornings, that’s still amazing. Consistency beats perfection every time.

✨ Bonus Tips for Maximizing Flexibility Gains

Let’s talk about a few extras that make a BIG difference in your stretch game:

• Hydrate like crazy! Muscles need water to stay elastic
• Fuel your body. Collagen, magnesium, and omega-3s can support joint and tissue health
• Track your progress with photos or a stretch journal—it’s super motivating!

 
I recommend:

• Collagen Peptides Powder – for joint and connective tissue support
• Triple Magnesium Complex – helps with soreness and muscle relaxation
• Fish Oil Omega-3 Softgels – essential for my aerial and flexibility training

 Let’s Chat
So now that you know the best time of day to stretch—are you Team Morning Mobilizer or Team Evening Bender? Tell me in the comments or DM me on IG! I love hearing what works for your body and routine

​-Laurie