Optimal Flexibility

Flexibility is sport and joint specific. In SportsLab training, the individual sport is modeled in terms of optimal range of motion for each joint action to produce both mobility, stability, and shock absorption.

Static flexibility, such as that experienced in yoga, eliminates the contribution of a stimulated nervous system. Too much flexibility is not a good thing as it relates to sports performance and can actually increase the susceptibility to injury. Static flexibility compromises ligaments and tendons and depreciates the body's ability to store elastic energy. Flexibility training without simultaneous strength training results in joint instability; flexibility training should always be combined with neuromuscular training.

Simultaneous stretching and strengthening maximizes the storage of elastic energy. The relaxation of the extended muscles coupled with the contraction of the moving muscles, produces mobility and stability. Multiple joint and muscle action utilizing three dimensional stretching with diagonal, spiral, and rotational aspects stimulates the body's kinesthetic sense. The system is challenged as integrative dynamic movements of progressive complexity and instability elicit stretch reflexes which facilitate the speed of contraction, greater range of motion, shock absorption, and stabilization. Some muscle groups are thus stimulated to stabilize the body while others are required to perform the specific task.