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STRETCHING
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 should not be considered as a relaxation activity.
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.
WHEN IS STRETCHING REQUIRED:
It is best not to do too much stretching before training or a competition.
Cardio-vascular warming up and loosening up all the joints in the body is sufficient before the workout as such.
AFTER training or the competition, a good STRETCHING session is welcome.
It should not be confused, however, with relaxation which can be carried out in an isolated place, in a comfortable position, in peace and quiet with soft background music.
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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