3.4 - Passive Stretching
Description
This article is from the Stretching FAQ, by Brad Appleton Brad_Appleton@ivhs.mot.com with numerous contributions by others.
3.4 - Passive Stretching
"Passive stretching" is also referred to as "relaxed stretching", and as
"static-passive stretching". A passive stretch is one where you assume a
position and hold it with some other part of your body, or with the
assistance of a partner or some other apparatus. For example, bringing your
leg up high and then holding it there with your hand. The splits is an
example of a passive stretch (in this case the floor is the "apparatus"
that you use to maintain your extended position).
Slow, relaxed stretching is useful in relieving spasms in muscles that are
healing after an injury. Obviously, you should check with your doctor first
to see if it is okay to attempt to stretch the injured muscles (See "4.12 -
Pain and Discomfort").
Relaxed stretching is also very good for "cooling down" after a workout and
helps reduce post-workout muscle fatigue, and soreness. (See "4.2 -
Cooling Down").
Continue to:
My Books
