There are many factors beyond stretching that affect our flexibility. Each of us have factors that contribute to a unique starting point. But can you spot the flexibility myth?
Age Affects Flexibility.
True. Age is one of the major factors that affects flexibility. As we get older, our tissues slowly lose elasticity. But the rate that our muscles age is determined in part by how we care for them. Staying moving plays a major role in slowing down this process. Remember, It’s never too late to begin flexibility training!
History of Injury Affects Flexibility.
True. While a muscle can absolutely regain flexibility after a tear or sprain, you might notice it’s tighter than before, especially if you did not stretch much after your injury. Why? After an injury, scar tissue will form in order to reattach the damaged muscle fibres. This creates stiffness in the tissue, but can be prevented by regularity stretching as soon as inflammation has subsided. This will keep your muscles flexible, even as scar tissue develops between.
Genetics Affects Flexibility
True. Some people have genetics that allow them a greater range of motion. Muscle tissue type, the elasticity of tendons and ligaments, as well as bone size and composition are all genetic factors that contribute to our flexibility. This is one of the reasons why at FWV, we meet you wherever you’re at. We’ll focus on finding your best bend, because everyone’s starting point is different!
Weight Affects Flexibility
False. The size of our bodies does not affect our flexibility. While some say it does, they are referring to inability for fat folks to complete certain stretches due to the way our bodies are shaped. I.e; Your hamstrings might be tight if your tummy is preventing you from doing a forward fold. But what this indicates is not a shortcoming of bigger bodies, but a shortcoming of instructors to design movements suited for folks in bigger bodies.
Ready for flexibility training designed for you? Browse our flexibility class offerings here.