Dancers all over the world are constantly asking questions such as…
“How can I get more flexible?”
“How do I get into the splits?”
“What are the best ways to stretch?”
There are so many myths in the dance world (as well as in Martial Arts, Gymnastics and any other sport that desires flexibility) about how to get more flexible, however many of these can actually be very dangerous.
Pushing into stretches, over stretching, PNF Stretching, Ballistic stretching and Partner Stretching all carry risks of tearing muscles and damaging ligaments. We now know that traditional stretching methods are the slowest and most inefficient way of getting more flexible.
Therapists such as Osteopaths, Chiropractors and Physiotherapists, as well as Massage Therapists and Myofascial therapists use many different techniques to enhance mobility and flexibility that have very little to do with stretching the muscle. Learning subtle ways of releasing certain trigger points yourself can have profound and dramatic results, without the risk of hurting yourself!
Working smarter, not harder, is the key to unlocking your maximum range. Addressing all of the components that influence flexibility; the breath, the nerves, the fascia and lastly the muscles is the best possible way for you to determine where you restrictions are.