Flexibility exercise is an exercise intended to stretch soft tissues to prepare for the rigors of sport. It includes stretching which improve the range of motion of muscles and joints. Flexibility exercises have been prescribed for the relief of menstrual disorders, general neuromuscular tension and low back pain. This type of exercise focuses on improving the extensibility of muscles and associated tissues by stretching.
Flexibility is having flexible muscles and defines as a joint’s ability to move freely through a full and normal range of motion. You will need a certain amount of flexibility to move smoothly, avoid muscle tension and prevent your body from any injury. Flexibility is an important part of a healthy life. There are two types of flexibility, first is the static flexibility and the other one is dynamic flexibility. Static flexibility is the ability to move slowly into a stretched position and to hold the body still while dynamic flexibility is the ability to move quickly at normal speed into a stretched position.
It is extremely important to clearly understand the many benefits that result from a good flexibility program. First, it improves physical performance and decrease risk of any injury. A flexible joint has the ability to move through a greater range of motion and requires less energy to do so, while greatly decreasing your risk of injury. It reduces muscle soreness and improves posture. It also reduces the risk of low back pain. If you are flexible, it actually promotes muscular relaxation. A muscle in constant contraction requires more energy to accomplish activities.
Stretching is highly important for general health and to prevent injuries during daily life and exercise. This is a form of physical exercise in which a specific muscle is deliberately elongated to its full length in order to muscles elasticity and reaffirms muscle tone. Stretching is performed by everyone including animals. Athletes stretch before and after exercise in order to increase performance and prevent injury. This may improve range of motion (ROM) in athletes especially for runners. It also reduces the risk of injury during the activity and it prevents post-exercise muscle soreness.
It is necessary to be aware of the benefits of stretching. Stretching before and after exercise is extremely vital to any fitness program. It warms up your body to prevent muscle soreness and reduce accidents and injury. Stretching can be very relaxing and calming and relieves stress and tension. It lengthens your muscles and makes your muscles more supple. It also improves tissue flexibility and elasticity and increases blood flow.
