I've seen so many people benefit from stretching and increased flexibility, that
I'm absolutely positive it is beneficial. Most people involved in the "hands-on"
side of coaching and sports training aren't worried by this type of study. It's
mostly the academics that do the majority of there coaching from behind a desk,
that are influenced by these studies.
So what can we say about the benefits of stretching...
Firstly: Upon undertaking a regular stretching program a number of changes
occur within the body. Firstly, by placing particular parts of the body in certain
positions, we are able to increase the length of muscles and tendons. As a result
of this, a reduction in general muscle tension is achieved and our normal range
of movement is increased.
By increasing our range of movement we are increasing the distance our limbs can
move before damage occurs to the muscles and tendons. For example, the muscles and
tendons in the back of our legs are put under great strain when kicking a football.
Therefore, the more flexible and pliable those muscles are, the further our leg
can travel forward before a strain or injury occurs to them.
The benefits of an extended range of movement includes: increased comfort; a greater
ability to move freely; and a lessening of our susceptibility to muscle and tendon
strain injuries.
Secondly: There is a dangerous stretching myth that says, 'if you stretch
too much you will lose both joint stability and muscle power. This is totally untrue.
By increasing our muscle and tendon length we are increasing the distance over which
our muscles are able to contract. This results in a potential increase to our muscles'
power and therefore increases our athletic ability, while also leading to an improvement
in dynamic balance, or the ability to control our muscles.