Flexibility

Static Stretching involves a slow, gradual, and controlled elongation of the muscles in a full range of motion of the joint. This low-intensity, long-duration stretch technique is what most experts believe to be the safest and most effective stretching technique which may be given to anybody.

It is important to understand that Static Stretching is best done when muscle temperature is high – approximately 100.4ºF or higher. Therefore, perform slow static stretches for at least 15-30 seconds for each major muscle group AFTER the cardio portion of your workout or in-between sets of strength training. Static Stretching may also be done at the end or your workout but NEVER at the beginning or after your warm-up for it to be safe and effective. Static Stretching may be performed everyday or every workout day.

(The above article is posted by permission of the copyright owner, Shirley Del Prado-Quejada, President of the Association of Fitness Professionals of the Philippines.)

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