ABSTRACT
Flexibility is the range of motion available at one joint or a series of joints. Exercises aimed at improving flexibility are commonly neglected in the typical gym programme. They are often perceived as having little aesthetic benefit and no effect on cardiovascular performance or muscular strength. The scientific community is also undecided as to the benefits of stretching, with much research demonstrating little or no benefit of stretching for reducing the risk of injury or improving performance. For those who believe that stretching is beneficial there is great debate over what types of stretches are most effective and at what stage of a person’s workout stretching should be performed. This chapter will summarize this debate and argue why, with effective exercise prescription and exercise selection, stretching and mobilizing can be highly beneficial for injury prevention and sports performance. Within this chapter we identify a range of
flexibility techniques that can be included in your clients’ workouts. We cover assisted stretching, in which the trainer is actively involved in the
stretching process. We also look at some advanced stretching techniques that utilize neurological pathways to relax muscle and aid in the stretching process. These have been grouped under the heading muscle energy techniques.
