Biomechanics of skeletal articulations

To stretch or not to stretch: While we are talking about flexibility, do you think it is important to stretch?  This question has received some attention recently since several studies have reported decrements in performance following stretching.  Moreover, recent studies suggest that stretching prior to exercise does not reduce your risk of injury. Some of these findings come from well controlled studies that were recently summarized.  Please read the paper and formulate some conclusions about whether you should stretch or not.   My interpretation of the literature is this.  If your joint range of motion is compromised (e.g., because of an injury, or age), or you do not have the flexibility to complete the task, you should stretch. Otherwise, reconsider a dynamic warm-up and avoid the static stretch!