Stretching resources thread

[Radek Pilich]

I haven`t been running and doing my gym workouts for last ten days, mainly because I had a cold. Now I feel cured but the day when I return to my training routines still haven`t come I have really realized today, that I need to continue exercise my body for the rest of my life to feel good, so I finally decided to start doing regular stretching sessions.
I want to start with some 10-20 minute session prior to going to sleep. I have searched through this forums and didn`t find any topic with some collection of stretching resources and stretching quides... so I am starting one
Your contribution is welcomed! Thanks guys

[RT Wolf]

Well you shouldn't stretch cold muscles. Try to warm up a little before stretching.

[Radek Pilich]

Originally Posted by RT Wolf

Well you shouldn't stretch cold muscles. Try to warm up a little before stretching.

Hmm that`s true, this is why I am asking you for resources, I need to gain some knowledge about stretching. I don`t want to sound silly now, but... ..ehm do you think that hot shower is sufficient?

[qiflow]

The best stretching book I have seen so far is Stretching Scientifically, by Thomas Kurz. Another interesting book is The Genius of Flexibility by Bob Cooley, but I would only read that after reading Stretching Scientifically. It seems to gloss over some important things.

Another good resource with about 200 stretches is Ultimate Flexibility. However, it does not cover some advanced forms of stretching like isometric stretching.

If you get into isometric stretching or resistance stretching (genius of flexibility), be careful with how much resistance you apply. It is very easy to tear things. If you feel a certain tingly sensation, that means something is ripping. Be very careful and listen to your body! Also, do strengthening work on all the muscles you are going to be stretching using isometric or resistance stretching. Kurz recommends 3x30 reps (or even more sets) of light weight for the strengthening (training strength-endurance), while Cooley recommends sets of 10 for strengthening (training max-strength). Everyone is unique so see how things work with YOUR body.

[kravin]

it's almost 10 years old now, but check out the Stretching & Flexibility FAQ. It's the most breadth and depth of coverage I've ever seen on stretching, and isn't a book trying to sell you something 'new'. It's had input from sportspeople through to martial artists and dancers.

[John Hill]

I just wrote an article recently on my site about stretching. Some say it is beneficial some studies say it's a waste of time. The link is below.

John