Stretching is a fundamentally important part of sport and exercise, playing a role in improving performance, and preventing injury and rehabilitation, but its scientific underpinnings have, to this point, been overlooked in book publishing. The Science and Physiology of Flexibility and Stretching is the most up-to-date and comprehensive book to cover the underlying physiology and psychology of stretching, critically assessing why, when, and how we should stretch, as well as offering a highly illustrated, practical guide to stretching exercises. Placing stretching in the context of both health and performance, the first section of the book sets out the science behind stretching, critically assessing the benefits, disadvantages, and roles of different types of stretching, exploring the mechanisms behind increasing range-of-movement through stretching and other methods, and offering evidence-based guidance on building stretching into warm-ups. In its second section, the book provides a step-by-step guide to static, dynamic, and PRF stretching exercises for beginners, through recreational athletes, to elite performers. Richly illustrated, and including an online resource, The Science and Physiology of Flexibility and Stretching provides an important scientific enquiry into stretching, and an invaluable reference for any strength and conditioning coach or student, personal trainer, sports coach, or exercise scientist.

Stretching Anatomy, Second Edition, is a visual guide to 86 stretches for increasing range of motion, muscular strength, stamina, posture, and flexibility. Step-by-step instructions describe how to perform each stretch, while 110 full-color anatomical illustrations highlight the primary muscles and surrounding structures engaged.

The Science of Stretching is a research-based book that brings together the scientific principles of many different modalities of stretching and its application to the general and sporting populations. The book reviews static stretching, dynamic stretching, ballistic stretching, vibration platform, PNF, myofascial release, Pilates and Yoga, as well as post-operative, chronic and acute injury benefits. Appropriate prescription, application and expected outcomes are explained, which will revolutionize the way you choose to stretch. The effect of stretching on performance indicators, like delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), running economy, speed and power, as well as chronic pain, growth-related, acute and chronic injury and exercise-associated muscle cramp are all reviewed and discussed from the latest research. The research indicates both positive and negative outcomes from stretching on performance indicators and some modalities are more relevant for certain populations than others. This book will help you take the guesswork out of stretching, and is fully illustrated with 160 colour photographs and 10 diagrams.

An updated edition of the best-selling guide on the science of effective stretching—with detailed anatomical illustrations and guidance on proper form, sports injury recovery, and more The multiple stresses of contemporary life—whether from excessive sports play, overwork, or overuse of technology—are increasingly taking a toll on the body. Symptoms range from muscle soreness and pain to pinched nerves to potentially more permanent disabilities, including serious body injuries. One safe, quickly productive way to address the problem is through a simple therapy that can be done anywhere, anytime, and without special equipment: stretching. This new edition of Brad Walker’s best-selling book on the subject presents 135 unique stretching exercises designed to help repair the body and make it more flexible, fit, and relaxed. Organized by body part, The Anatomy of Stretching presents stretching exercises in a uniform style accompanied by full-color anatomical illustrations. Equally useful for fitness fans, pro or amateur athletes, coaches and personal trainers, and healthcare practitioners, this new edition contains: • Step-by-step instructions for 20 new stretches • An expanded physiology and anatomy information • A revised numbering system that makes the stretches easier to reference • An expanded appendix with more resources on stretches for athletes and sports injuries Also featuring detailed descriptions of important principles of anatomy and physiology, The Anatomy of Stretching, Second Edition is the ultimate guide to improving flexibility, increasing strength, and relieving pain through stretching.

Ultimate Flexibility is the book you've been waiting for. More than a collection of exercises or an explanation of technique, Ultimate Flexibility is a complete guide to stretching for martial arts, from the very basics of why you should stretch to detailed workout guidelines for every style and level of martial arts practice.Written by acclaimed author and martial artist Sang H. Kim, Ultimate Flexibility is your guide to achieving maximum flexibility in your training. Begin with an in depth look at the hows and whys of flexibility and stretching.

Here is a definitive guide to flexibility that revises the conceptual framework of the field. From the conceptual foundations of research to the practical applications of stretching techniques in a number of domains, this book provides a fresh perspective on flexibility, one that challenges current thinking and professional practice. It covers all major types of flexibility technique and training, with an emphasis on when and how to use each method safely and effectively. Specific applications to rehabilitation, sport, fitness, and dance make this book an invaluable resource for all practitioners and professionals in the field of human movement.