Anyone got a tried and tested stretching routine?

Reala · 06-17-2009, 06:23 AM

Hi guys,

I've been training about 3 years now and I'm happy with everything such as strength, power in kicks, etc, etc... however I'm wanting to be a bit more flexible... I can already kick head height, but I'd like to be able to do it eaiser and generally feel more comfortable when doing it.

There are SO MANY stretching routines, I gave stretching scientifically a go and found it OK but I was wondering if anyone had a specfic routine they have used and got good results from.

Thanks in advance and sorry for thenewbie question

zop · 06-17-2009, 02:36 PM

Agile 8.
DeFranco's Training ..:: The Ultimate Way To Become A Better Athlete ::..

nck · 06-17-2009, 04:04 PM

I do the Gracie stretch routine, it covers the myriad of stretches. It also has a good section on stretching with a partner. I haven't done any other stretches since I've started the GSR, and my flexibility has gone up quite a bit. You can pick up the " Super Fit" book from your local book store. Good buy IMO

PowerHungry · 06-17-2009, 04:13 PM

On the Bas Rutten Big DVDs of Combat, he has one disc dedicated just to stretching. Prolly about an hour to an hour and a half of just him demonstrating different stretching routines.

nck · 06-17-2009, 06:48 PM

Hm, that sounds interesting. I love Bas videos to begin with, they're intense.
I'm definitely going to check that out.

stewy37 · 06-18-2009, 04:36 PM

Google Brad Appleton Stretching.

Lemonrise5 · 06-19-2009, 02:17 PM

I got a lot of imprevement from Zaichik's DVD. He got routines, not just stretches.

spirez · 06-20-2009, 07:14 AM

Which one? There's an elastic steel for grapplers set i want to check out but tbh it doesn;t look too convincing from the youtube clips.

Plus i'd have to watch it with the sound off, one of the most annoying voices EVER

kenzo242 · 06-20-2009, 08:33 PM

In order to increase flexability, you need to foam roll the muscle around your hip complex(ie: glutes, TFL, IT band etc..), static stretch and then active isolated stretching. If you're not sure what these techniques are, let me know and I will explain further. LAte.

$ick Money! · 06-20-2009, 08:43 PM

Im a fan of foam rolling and then dynamic stretching before workouts and static stretching immediately after.

I think of the muscle somewhat similar to a rubberband. If the rubberband has a knot in it and you try to stretch it the knot will get tighter. If you undo the knot you can stretch the rubberband all you want.

If your muscle(s) have a knot in it your range of motion, flexibility and strength will be compromised as the body will try to protect that area. If you break the knot up with massage/SMR/Foam rolling you can stretch the muscle to its full capacity.