STRETCHING exercises are designed to relax the muscles and prevent soreness. In animals, stretching is instinctive. Through civilisation, man has lost this instinct. In the martial arts, this gymnastic exercise was developed many years ago.
STRETCHING is not an activity in its own right and is therefore part of all physical exercises.
A muscle which works shortens. With STRETCHING a muscle regains its original length and its contraction speed.
Every day, walking affects the iliopsoas and the rectus femoris. Permanently working these muscles shortens them, hence the need to stretch them to prevent pinching in the lumbar spine resulting in sciatica.
View of the iliopsoas insertions
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Anterior view of the thigh
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