A sensible flexibility, or stretching program will not only enhance physical fitness, it can actually leave you with a more youthful, supple body that protects itself against injury. Stretching increases flexibility and range of motion by stimulating the production of chemicals that lubricate connective soft tissue.
But besides becoming more limber, your ability to learn physical skills will be improved due to increased dexterity and coordination. Stretching after physical activity will also reduce next-day muscle soreness, promote healing of microscopic tears, as well as prevent future injuries to overused, tight muscles.
Stretch training also promotes relaxation, both physical and mental. The ability to let go of stress is something everybody can use on a daily basis, and is a great balance for anyone who is feeling stress in their everyday life.
The three main types of flexibility are
-Dynamic Flexibility: the ability to bring a limb through its full range of motion.
-Static/Active Flexibility: the ability to assume and maintain an extended limb position using only your own muscles.
-Static/Passive Flexibility: the ability to assume and maintain an extended limb position, using body weight, a partner or prop. Flexibility is defined as the absolute range of motion in a joint, or series of joints.
As a trainer I do my best to focus on mobility rather than flexibility with my clients. An example of mobility would be the range of motion of the hips. I try to find exercises that assist my clients in increasing their mobility. This in turn over time increases their flexibility. Trainers should not just challenge you with exercises that are to difficult but also give you exercises that are improving your movement patterns.
Andrew Voris is a NASM certified personal trainer working out of his private office in Glen Ellyn, IL. His website is http://www.bodyformpersonaltraining.com
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