I do several stretches pointed out as no-nos in that article. I have a little routine that I always do, much of which I borrowed from Janet Evans' book. But after reading that I'm thinking I might just quit stretching altogether.
:confused:
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Former Member
Hey Herb,
I have not read the article yet, but I think it is the same information that was published by USA swimming a couple years back.
Stretching in general is a topic of much debate. Since the experts keep changing their minds, I have come up with my own guidelines.
Stretch to maintain full range of motion only. I should be flexible enough to touch my toes at any time, but not put my foot behind my head.
Do stretches I am comfortable with. The tricep stretch I have been doing for over 20 years is on the bad list. I am going to keep doing it because in 20 years it hasn't caused injury and improves my range of motion. It is probably on the bad list because someone tried to touch their elbow to their opposite shoulder and tore a ligament. See rule 1.
Stretch regularly. It is much easier to maintain needed flexibility than regain it.
I think stretching is important because, as swimmers, we don't do much that maintains the full range of motion in our lower bodies, yet pulling a muscle in the leg or back from doing yard work, cleaning out the garage, etc. will hinder us in the water just as much as sore shoulders.
Hey Herb,
I have not read the article yet, but I think it is the same information that was published by USA swimming a couple years back.
Stretching in general is a topic of much debate. Since the experts keep changing their minds, I have come up with my own guidelines.
Stretch to maintain full range of motion only. I should be flexible enough to touch my toes at any time, but not put my foot behind my head.
Do stretches I am comfortable with. The tricep stretch I have been doing for over 20 years is on the bad list. I am going to keep doing it because in 20 years it hasn't caused injury and improves my range of motion. It is probably on the bad list because someone tried to touch their elbow to their opposite shoulder and tore a ligament. See rule 1.
Stretch regularly. It is much easier to maintain needed flexibility than regain it.
I think stretching is important because, as swimmers, we don't do much that maintains the full range of motion in our lower bodies, yet pulling a muscle in the leg or back from doing yard work, cleaning out the garage, etc. will hinder us in the water just as much as sore shoulders.
