This is old news. E.g. "Stretching Scientifically" by Tom Kurz published IIRC some time in the 1980's discusses this in detail. Static stretching ahead of an

This is old news. E.g. "Stretching Scientifically" by Tom Kurz published IIRC some time in the 1980's discusses this in detail. Static stretching ahead of an activity is counter-productive and increases risk of injury. What you need to do before an activity is warm-up != stretching and that warm up should be customized to your activity. Stretching after the activity is a better idea though you also need to pick the right stretches, combine with strength training, and it all depends on your flexibility and sport. Another thought, as someone who sits all day (really need a standing desk!) and practices Karate and a little Yoga I definitely recommend that people who sit all day do some sort of stretching and other activities to counteract the effects of prolonged sitting...