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Stretching the Truth
I wanted to comment briefly in review to this article. Although I did like much of the content and it seemed well researched for the most part, there was an error in describing the difference between active and passive stretching that I hope will be corrected, seeing as evidence shows active stretching is far safer and more effective then passive I think this distinction is important.
The author had written:
"There are two different types of stretching?active and passive.
1.Active stretching is where you are taking the muscle beyond its normal range of motion with assistance (PNF or with the help of a partner).
2.Passive stretching allows the muscles and tendons to stretch naturally without the use of additional forces acting on the muscle/tendon. The flexibility gains are not as great with passive stretching as it is with active stretching."
However, the opposite is true. Active stretching involves the active use of your own muscles within it's normal range, without external forces. Passive stretching involves allowing your muscles to passively be forced beyond their normal range using external force (such as applied by another person, or leaning into an object).
Later in the article, the writer describes static stretching as having a low risk of injury. Although the risks are not as high as with Ballistic stretching, current research indicates that static stretching (especially before practice or training) increases instability and risk of injury.
Dynamic warmup stretches are advised pre workout and active range of motion post workout for a safe, effective, long term stretching program.
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"We are made strong by that which we overcome."
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