Gallery: Work It Out: Why Stretching Is A Key Ingredient To Building Muscle

Stretching may seem like it's something just for those that want to be all bendy and contort into all different shapes and positions. The target audience is typically women, gymnast or yoga enthusiasts, "yogis," if you will.

But you may be surprised at the benefits of stretching. 

Having flexibility in your body is an important key to good health and is actually a main ingredient in physical fitness along with diet and exercise. Read through the list to know the benefits of stretching and how it'll help you reach your optimum fitness level.