Here is something new (the document states 9/24/07) from the USA Swimming site by George T. Edelman, MPT, OCS, MTC: Shoulder Stretching: Helpful or Harmful? (Accompanying PowerPoint)
The conclusion is:
• Cognitive shift in stretching programs
• Stretching is athlete specific
• Shoulder stretches that target the glenohumeral joint capsule can be harmful to the swimmer and are strongly discouraged
• Stretches that target the muscle tissue and respect the musculo-tendon unit - encouraged
Naturally, according to George, I've been doing the exact wrong exercises. &^@#.
What do y'all think of this? Fort?
Mark
Parents
Former Member
Mark I find it very interesting, it proves a lot of my thinking on those grotesque pretzel type stretching exercises.
It seems they are suggesting the gentle type of stretches I would agree to.
I still believe however there should not be any stretches until after your swim and do your cool down swim.
There is a lot of concern about using proper technique, most shoulder injuries are caused by improper stretching, improper technique and not doing a proper warm up in the water.
Mark I find it very interesting, it proves a lot of my thinking on those grotesque pretzel type stretching exercises.
It seems they are suggesting the gentle type of stretches I would agree to.
I still believe however there should not be any stretches until after your swim and do your cool down swim.
There is a lot of concern about using proper technique, most shoulder injuries are caused by improper stretching, improper technique and not doing a proper warm up in the water.
