A question we don't get asked very often is: How do I add stretching to my fitness routine?

This lack of curiosity suggests one of several things: (1) People have studied the issue deeply and know everything they need to stretch safely and effectively; (2) they are so clueless they don't know where to start; or (3) they don't give it any thought, since what's the big deal about stretching, anyway?

In Depth About the Crew | Ask the Crew Susan Morse Health section assistant editor, hiker, kayaker, swimmer and dabbler in a variety of exercise regimens. » VISIT THE ARCHIVES Browse the Archives Recent Columns Discussion Transcripts Save & Share Tag This Article  Saving options 1. Save to description:  Headline (required) 2. Save to notes (255 character max):  Blurb 3. Tag This Article

Let's dismiss No. 1 with a brisk, "Yeah, right." For everyone else, we've created this handy quiz, which clears up many misunderstandings about this crucial part of any fitness regimen. All answers come from the American Council on Exercise Personal Trainer's Manual and the American College of Sports Medicine.

True or False: It's important to begin every workout with a gentle, thorough stretching session.

Ha! Fooled you already. That's false. Don't stretch a cold body. Warm up first with five to 10 minutes of brisk walking, light calisthenics, even marching in place -- anything that increases your heart rate, raises your core body temperature and lubes your joints. People who stretch when cold often become what is known in the fitness world as "regular patients of an orthopedist."

Perform a stretch until you feel a slight pain, then back off a bit and hold the stretch.

Fooled you again! That's false. You shouldn't perform any stretch to the point of pain. Do a stretch until your muscle feels tight , but before you feel pain.