Worried your workers will get hurt stretching?

Are you worried about a worker getting injured with the company stretch & flex routine? 

Searching for data that says stretch and flex is a sure thing ?? for reduction in injury costs?

You’re not alone.  I’m asked this all the time. Here’s my take on it:

1?? STRETCHING DOES NOT WARM YOU UP!  On the majority of worksites, the programs I see have zero warm up. Most leave a few squats at the end ???♀?. A warm up must come first. Safety talks should come before anything so you don’t defeat the purpose of warming up for work. 

2?? Stretching should be dynamic (active and IN CONTROL). You get a 2for with dynamic moves...warm up + mobility.  

3?? I should disclose that I trust studies and data as far as my nose...for everything (diet plans, effects of stretching, wifi waves etc) because In My Opinion, you can make data say what you need it to by adding/removing variables and cherry picking numbers.  

I know every safety pro wants/needs data to back up a proposed program or new initiative. On my end, I have recommendations from my clients if anyone needs it, but that's for a comprehensive program NOT simply a stretch & flex poster or video.

4?? Have a ninja/PT/ATC/CSCS help you with work task assessments and creation of a "Work Prep" routine. This means going onsite to determine similar movements to what the body will be doing, but I also like to include the correctional postures if the duration of a specific posture is lengthy.  

5?? Make it relevant. Make it badass and fun. That way if it's in a group setting, most will participate eventually.  #fomo is a real thing!

Anyone is free to contact me with any questions they have! Message me here or at [email protected]