Flexibility training includes performing exercises that help to maximize your range of motion as well as your muscle stability. This is beneficial as it results in improved blood flow in your muscles and the risk of injuring yourself is lowered.
There are three basic types of stretching exercises:
Static stretches are those that you "pull to a maximum end point, hold for 5 or 10 seconds, then release." These should be included in every warm up routine that you do. By gently pulling on each of your muscle groups you will improve the circulation, thus preparing your muscles for more vigorous activity while helping you to avoid tears and tendon stretching.
There is a type of stretching that is much more controversial due to the fact that they involve stretching with added momentum or while using weights. These are called dynamic or ballistic stretches. They may be harmful, which is why they are so controversial. Thus, you really should seek out a knowledgeable trainer before you actually engage in this type of flexibility training. One example of this type of stretching is lunges.
Another type of stretches is PNF (Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation) stretches. These involve both passive and isometric exercise. There are a couple of benefits to this type of flexibility training, which should motivate you to investigate its value. The first benefit is that when performed properly, under the guidance of a trained fitness professional, this type of flexibility training can truly prepare your body for more strenuous activity. Secondly, a partner is used in order to be able to provide you with the proper amount of resistance while inhibiting your movement. PNF exercises really should only be attempted after you have received proper, hands-on training as to how to do these exercises. This is because if you do them incorrectly, you can sprain your muscles or damage your joints.
Regardless of the type of workout routine you decide upon, you should always make sure that you do good flexibility exercises beforehand. This will maximize your performance of more strenuous exercises.
