Healing Aids... - Exercise - Flexibility Exercises

Flexibility exercises, whether in the form of calisthenics, yoga, or other stretches, are an essential part of an exercise program. They should be performed before and after both aerobic and strength exercises to improve performance and especially to avoid injury.

Flexibility involves the degree to which our muscles, joints, ligaments, and tendons allow us to move in their full range of motion. Common problem areas include the low back, shoulders, chest, and hamstrings (back of your upper legs). These muscles become tight and we lose mobility due to prolonged periods of sitting, improper body alignment or posture, lack of exercise, and lack of stretching before or after exercise. Sprains and strains are often caused by "cold" muscles that become over-stretched due to a simple lack of warming up before exercise.

Not only do flexibility exercises help stretch muscles directly, but they also increase your ability to stretch more, by circulating blood around your body. Many people do not realize that stretching not only prevents injury but actually enhances performance, including strength. Research has shown that flexibility (and not just musculature) is a contributing factor to strength.