Frequently Asked Questions
Browsing through the following questions will help answer the most common questions we hear about flexibility therapy. If you have further questions, please Contact Us. We are happy to answer any questions you have.
What is this form of stretching called?
The method of stretching I use is called PNF (proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation) stretching. It is a partner-assisted stretching technique that is considered the most advanced type of stretching.
How can stretching help aid in athletic performance?
Stretching gives an athlete many benefits including:
- Reduced chance of injury
- More movement resulting in the ability to run faster, jump higher, throw faster, hit the ball further, and react more quickly
- Better relaxation
- More strength
- Fewer aches and pains
- Better mental focus
I am not an athlete so why should I do this?
This question is all too common. Non-athletes in the Taylored stretching program find the athletic list of benefits just as relevant in their personal lives, physical energy and hobbies (i.e. golf game). In addition, our flexibility training also aids in reducing:
- Arthritis pain
- Sciatic nerve pain
- Lower back pain
- Frozen shoulders
- Stress and anxiety
- Muscle soreness
- And improve posture
I have always been told to hold a stretch for 20-30 seconds. Why do this?
When you stretch, your muscle actually contracts (shortens). When you hold a stretch for 20-30 seconds, the muscle will actually relax and lengthen—which is the goal of stretching.
Should I warm up before stretching?
Absolutely. Like a rubber band, muscles can stretch better when warm.
Should I have a trained person help me, or can one of my friends do this for me?
PNF stretching should always be done with someone who has received training.
Does PNF stretching hurt?
Let’s face it, as your body gets accustomed to the routine there is some discomfort with stretching. But like anything beneficial to your body, the more you do it the better you feel and you actually start to look forward to each session.
How do you feel after being stretched?
I love to answer this question—you feel great. Some clients explain it like being on a cloud. Everything opens up and you completely relax.
What can I do to help my stretching routine?
If you are getting stretched, you can aid your program by stretching on your own everyday. Another area that is overlooked is nutrition. Drink lots of water and eat a healthy diet.
I have heard that if you stretch, you are increasing the chance of joint problems.
This can happen, but only with people who have excessive flexibility (like the contortionist you see on TV). Few people have this flexibility condition, so it is a non-issue for most people considering flexibility therapy.
Does age or gender affect a person’s flexibility?
Yes. Generally younger people have more flexibility. As we age, our muscles become more fibrous and thus stretch less. Also, women generally have better flexibility than men due to less muscle mass and some anatomical differences.
Does lifting weights cause you to be tight?
Active people tend to be more flexible than a couch potato. You can actually increase your range of motion with a fitness program. You can lose range of motion if your muscles are excessive, but don’t let that fool you—body builders are generally very flexible people.
Can anyone do this?
To a certain extent, yes. I have stretched people from age 12 years old to 90 years old, both athletes and non-athletes. The benefits of this program are virtually universal.