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Increasing flexability.

BRETTO Posts: 201 Joined: 2002/05/25	2002/07/11, 11:25 AM I can't remember ever being able to touch my toes. I'm 33 and only slightly overweight, so it's not like I have a big belly getting in the way or something like that. I can almost touch them. I've been stretching everyday but I still can't seem to touch those mo fo's. If I'm VERY careful, is it OK to hold a little weight and bounce a little to get more stretch?
mikencharleston Posts: 1,585 Joined: 2002/01/09	2002/07/11, 11:55 AM My opinion - you never want to bounce with any stretch. There's a couple of really good posts on stretching/flexibility from a couple of months ago. A search ought to find them for you fairly easy.
roni0906 Posts: 1,008 Joined: 2002/01/24	2002/07/11, 07:01 PM Yoga is great for flexibility. I used Dennis Austin's power yoga video at home 1-3 per week and I love it. I get really good stretches and it will make you sweat at the same time. It also helps with balance. -------------- Lisa
Philia2 Posts: 4,078 Joined: 2001/10/19	2002/07/12, 02:30 AM There is something called a "reflexe myotatique" (anyway, that's what we call it in France!!....) That's an automatical reflex of the muscles to contract for protection from any injuries when you stretch (or do whatever). The muscles don't want to be agressed further so they contract and shorten themselves. And that's why when we stretch, we need to stand still calmly in the position so we are telling the muscles that there is no danger and they can relax and let themselves be stretched..... (this takes around 20-30 sec) You follow me? Anyway, what I want to say is that if you also put on a weight and bounce, well yes then you will never get any good results since the muscles will keep trying to protect themselves and you'll not be able to become more flexible. Then how will you get more flexible? By using the breathing. Just stand still and let the breathing relax and stretch your muscles. -------------- - Nina :o) La vie est toujours aussi belle.....