The Importance of Flexibility
The ability to move your joints and muscles through their full range of motion is a critical component to fitness. This is called flexibility and it can be trained to improve over time with regular stretching exercises. While aerobic training increases cardiovascular endurance and muscle strength are the most commonly emphasized components of a fitness program, it is equally important to include some flexibility training in your exercise routine.
Flexibility is the ability of the muscles and joints to perform a range of movements without tightness or pain. Human flexibility is not the same for everyone and a person’s joint structure, muscle elasticity and nervous system are all influenced by heredity and age. Flexibility is generally improved through the use of dynamic stretches. These stretches are designed to warm up the muscles and then gradually stretch them to a point where you feel the tension, but no tightness or pain. This is a safe way to stretch the body and it should be done before any other exercises.
Many people think that they will never be very flexible because it is just something that they are born with or cannot achieve. This is untrue; as with cardiovascular endurance and muscle strength, flexibility can be improved with regular training.
Muscles that are inflexible become fatigued more quickly, which can lead to muscular injuries. Inflexible muscles also place increased strain on structures and tissues distant from the primary area of inflexibility, such as ligaments and tendons. Flexibility training has been shown to reduce the risk of injury and decrease muscular soreness.
Increasing flexibility is not an easy task and it requires some dedication to the routine. However, the benefits of being flexible can be considerable. Whether it is to decrease the chance of injury during workouts, sports or daily activities, or to improve posture and reduce back pain, flexible muscles will help you stay healthy.
Most people understand the need to participate in regular aerobic activity and weight-training programs as part of their overall fitness routine, but flexibility training is often overlooked. This is unfortunate, as a flexible body can improve both the quality of life and athletic performance.
Most people engage in aerobic activity to improve cardiovascular endurance and burn calories, while focusing on weight-training to build muscle tissue and increase strength. Flexibility training is just as important and should be included in any exercise program. Including both static and dynamic stretches can provide the best results. A physiotherapist can tailor the type of stretches to suit your needs and recommend a routine that will help you to achieve the maximum benefit from this essential aspect of exercise. Flexibel träning