Myofascial Release and Flexibility Training

Flexibility training is perhaps the most undervalued component of conditioning. While recent and ongoing debate questions its role in injury prevention, clients can still gain much from a stretching Myofascial release regiment.

From a volleyball spike to a rugby drop kick, flexibility of the body's muscles and joints play an integral part in many athletic movements.

 

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In general terms, flexibility has been defined as the range of motion about a joint and its surrounding muscles during a passive movement. Passive in this context simple means no active muscle involvement is required to hold the stretch. Instead gravity or a partner provides the force for the stretch. By increasing this joint range of motion, performance may be enhanced and the risk of injury reduced.

The rationale for this is that a limb can move further before an injury occurs. Tight neck muscles for example, may restrict how far you can turn your head. If, during a tackle, your head is forced beyond this range of movement it places strain on the neck muscles and tendons. Ironically, static stretching just prior an event may actually be detrimental to performance and offer no protection from injury. The emphasis is on "may" however, as a closer examination of the scientific literature shows that effects are often minimal and by no means conclusive.

Take racket sports for example. The same arm is used to hit thousands of shots over and over again. One side of the body is placed under different types and levels of stress compared to the other. A Flexibility Myofascial Release training program can help to correct these disparities preventing chronic, over-use injury. Of course, a more flexible athlete is a more mobile athlete. It allows enhanced movement around the court or field with greater ease and dexterity.

Myofascial Release Self-myofascial release (SMR) is an excellent way to improve the flexibility and suppleness of a muscle. It may also reduce muscle pain which can restrict or inhibit movement of the muscle.

Foam rolling is a technique that can be used to promote myofascial release, which can help reduce or eliminate trigger points in the muscles. Myofascia is the fascia that covers the muscles and helps to keep the muscle groups together. The ffascial web intertwines through the human body. Many athletes and fitness enthusiasts often seek out the skills of a massage therapist to improve their recovery through myofascial release. This can be time-consuming as well as cost-prohibitive.

While some athletes and fitness enthusiasts will seek the services of a massage therapist, the majority may never have the chance to experience myofascial release. Using myofascial release techniques is a wonderful way to improve the quality of life. You may experience less soreness following a training session, your muscles can recover more quickly, and their performance levels may improve. Soon after embarking on a foam rolling myofascial release program, you could begin to experience a return to a normal level of function.

Some other benefits may include an increase in body awareness and a promotion of relaxation in the muscle groups stretched - both of which may have positive implications for skill acquisition, performance and everyday living.

Call Steve, In-Training Sports | 561-281-8330
In Training Sports
www.intrainingsports.com
3131 Village Blvd, #305
West Palm Beach, FL 33409