We’ve come to the end of this guide on “How not to stretch” and covered many bases. In this final part, I’d like to give you some resources for even more practical advice, specific stretching exercises and in-depth information. Here we go:
Free stuff
I’ll get to commercial products in a bit but there is some really good free content to be found around the internet. If you don’t want to spend any money, check these out first:
- Brad Appleton’s guide: This guide to stretching has been around for a long time and is a good piece to get you started. It’s a bit dated but you still get a lot of good, in-depth info. The only real negative point is a total lack of visual aids; no pictures or drawings, nothing. But don’t let that stop you from checking it out, it’s worth it.
- The Stretching Institute: Though they ‘re mainly plugging their products, the site still has a lot of free content. They give a sample of the best stretches per sport and also which injuries are most common. And you might also enjoy the free articles. I have no idea if their products are good but the free content is cool.
- About.com’s guide: This page has a boatload of articles and links, giving you a wide variety of stretching exercises. If you want info on how to stretch a specific muscle, you’ll probably find it here.
- 6 good stretches: This free video shows 6 different stretches, mainly for the lower body. What I like most is how they cover areas that most martial artists just gloss over in their pursuit of doing splits. I know these exercises look a bit funky but give them a try. You might be surprised at their effectiveness.
Commercial stuff:
If you’re looking for even more information, you might enjoy these products here:
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