With Gavin Buehler
I have previously shared some tips to get the most out of your glute stretches, so this month I’m going to go over some tips for stretching the hip flexors.
“Tight hip flexors,” are a common theme these days as we spend more and more time in positions where they are in a shortened state such as sitting and driving. While stretching them is a commonly prescribed remedy, they more often than not also need some stimulation as well.
This first video will explain how to get the most from the half-kneeling hip flexor stretch, and the second video adds the stimulation portion.
As always, these videos are for educational purposes only. Please consult a health professional before attempting new exercises or protocols, as the following suggestions may or may not be appropriate for you.
I hope you find this information helpful. Any feedback or comments are welcome through foxintegratedtherapy@gmail.com. If you have a topic you would like discussed, let us know!
Here’s how to get more out of your hip flexor stretching. We’re going to use a PNF (proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation) technique, also known as MET (muscle energy technique).
Some benefits of using this over a passive stretch are:
• Getting a deeper stretch
• Building a neuromuscular connection
• Creating mobility, not just flexibility
• Longer lasting effect
How does this work? By using a submaximal contraction of the same muscle we are stretching followed by the stretch itself, we can take advantage of a response called autogenic inhibition. Without getting into the fancy terminology, this basically creates a relaxion response that allows us to sink a little deeper into the stretch. By contracting the muscle in the lengthened position we’re creating neural pathways that let the brain and body know we can use this muscle in this lengthened state. Knowing we can use the muscle begins to create a new range of motion that you can build control with. Control of your flexibility is mobility. This gives you a longer lasting effect. As always share with someone who you think might benefit from this! Thank you!
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