Flexibility

What is Flexibility?

It has to do with the elasticity the muscles, tendons, and ligaments have during periods of physical activity or stretching.

Why it's important to stretch?

Stretching strengthens our tendons and ligaments. This gives us greater range of movement and muscle control, allowing us to perform more tasks with greater ease. Tendons and ligaments play an important role helping with movement and providing support around our joints.

The tendons and ligaments we have are a big reason why our bodies don't crumble when they are in motion. This is because they are connective tissue.

Tendons are fibrous tissues that connect muscle to bones. They transmit energy from our muscles to our bones to create movement.

Ligaments are fibrous tissues that connect bones to bones forming joints.

With proper suppleness of the tendons and ligaments you reduce the risk of injury. For example, tendinitis is caused when tendons are overstretched or overexerted. Sprains occur when ligaments are overstretched or overexerted.

Increasing your range of movement

It’s best to establish a stretching routine, particularly, if you are about to engage in a sport or other physical activity. You should stretch before and after any vigorous activity you perform. Checkout this section for different stretches tailored to improve your range of movement.