Why Stretching Isn’t for Everyone

Stretching can be a confusing topic with the amount of information out in the universe on what to do, how much to do it and what the research says. You’ve probably been told many different answers on how to stretch if you experience mobility issues, “tightness”, etc. Have you been stretching for a long time and haven’t experienced the results you want?

There is a category of individuals that we would consider hypermobile, simply put they have too much range of motion (throughout their body or in specific regions). These individuals will report feeling “tight” within their lower back, hamstrings, etc. and will stretch constantly without much relief.

Recall what Einstein said awhile back, “Insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results.”

Maybe stretching isn’t the right intervention for what you are trying to address?

Most people that are hypermobile and have a lot of range of motion would most likely benefit from implementing stability, balance and motor control exercises into their program through a specific progression which is different based on each individual.

Now, I'm not saying to stop stretching if you enjoy it and find it beneficial, but it’s important to look at the big picture and start to implement more specific interventions to address the true underlying cause of what is going on to help you get back to living a life of less pain and more freedom.

If you have questions, let us know!