Flexibility training involves performing a series of exercises that help maximize range of motion and muscle stability. The benefits are improved blood flow in the muscles and lower risk of injury.
There are three basic types of stretching exercises that help accomplish these goals: static, dynamic and Isometric/PNF.
Static stretches are the most traditional type, encompassing the more or less standard 'pull to maximum end point, hold for five or ten seconds, then release' group of exercises.
Static stretches should form part of every 10 minute warm-up routine. Every major muscle group should be given a gentle pull, hold and relax. This helps improve the circulation and readies the muscles for more vigorous activity, while decreasing the risk of tears or tendon stretching.
Dynamic or ballistic stretches are more controversial, since they involve stretch with added momentum or even using weights. They are potentially harmful and that risk-factor is one of the major elements behind the controversy. At minimum, you should seek out a knowledgeable trainer before engaging in this form of flexibility training.
As one example, rest one knee on a ball and slowly rotate the ball away from the body, giving a very moderate bounce at the maximum point. Lunges, performed by moving one foot ahead, kneeling slightly with the back straight and bouncing gently, would be another.
PNF (Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation) involves a combination of passive and isometric exercise. Apart from having a fancy technical name and associated acronym, PNF actually has several useful features that should motivate individuals to investigate its value.
by whitesufer 14 years ago
How do you stretch without pain?Like when my gym teacher tell me to Touch for my toes and I reach down and I am suppose to hold it for 30secs but I can't because it hurts when I get a few cm. past my knees... is there a way I can pratice it so there no pain or is that a life thing? You know that...
by daisyjae 10 years ago
What is the best way to get really flexible?Is it to hold stretches for a shorter time and repeat often? Or to hold for longer time? Or a combination of both? Any tips are appreciated!!
by HubPages 15 years ago
How to improve flexibility
by Kelly A Burnett 10 years ago
What exercises do you perform daily? Any stretches?I need motivation. Do you do exercises daily? Do you do stretches daily? If so, what is your essential routine? Time of day? Throughout the day?We brush our teeth daily, I don't understand why I was trained to exercise/stretch daily.
by PhoenixV 12 years ago
Can You Grow Taller With Stretching Exercises?Can You Grow Taller With Stretching Exercises?
by Rodric Anthony Johnson 11 years ago
What things can you do to avoid being overweight if you have health problems?I have diabetic neuropathy and I have weakness in my muscles. It is hard for me to find an exercise routine that works with my pain and my dizziness. What can someone in my situation do?
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