Thursday, 24 January 2013

Why too much flexibility is not always good for you

Often people assume  that they are not very good in yoga because they are unable to touch their toes or get into pretzel shapes. I personally feel that it is better that students are a bit stiff than too flexible as too much flexibility often causes them more harm than good in the long run.  

The most important lesson for beginners is to learn to respect their boundaries when it comes to stretching. Whereas it is normal to feel a slight discomfort in stronger stretches it is important to know when to stop and take a step back if in pain.  
Although some flexibility is good, hyperflexibility can stress and damage the joints when the muscles and ligaments are not strong enough to take the strain of a deep stretch.
Building muscular strength helps not only yoga practice but also keeps the student fit for life preventing the onset of chronic musculoskeletal diseases, such as arthritis and osteoporosis, especially in women. Stronger people are lighter and able to move their bodies with greater ease.

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