The BIG Picture

As babies, we are all born with exceptional flexibility. But, this flexibility is lost over time in a non-linear manner. The graph below illustrates my perception of this phenomena.

• It is easily seen that babies are the most flexible, while older people are less flexible. Just look at how easily a baby can put its toes in its mouth! However, the amazing flexibility of the baby is always lost rapidly during early childhood. It seems that the most lasting gains in flexibility can be achieved between the ages of 5 and 15 (approximately). It is not uncommon for kids to start dance or gymnastics at this age. Most importantly, it should be noted that the graph only indicates potential for flexibility. Careful training is always necessary to realize your full potential. As you get older, you will still be able to improve your flexibility, but it will require more training than for a child attempting the same thing. Gender and genetic advantages will also allow some to progress more easily, but all can go far if they put their mind to it. Most obstacles can be overcome by training. Not everybody can develop the flexibility of a contortionist, but few have tested their limits to see what they are really capable of.

• Strength development does not necessarily interfere with flexibility development. Of course, if you do only strength, and neglect stretching, you will lose flexibility. It also depends on the type of strength exercises you do. If you choose strength exercises that use the full range of motion, this could actually improve your flexibility (dumbell flyes instead of bench press, for example). Whatever kind of strength training you do, you should stretch a little before and during the exercises, and then stretch a lot afterwards.

• There is no such thing as "too much flexibility", unless you have a rare medical condition known as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Ranges of motion which most people would consider "extreme" make gymnastic and acrobatic skills easier to perform. Also, such limberness improves the asthetics of arts such as dance. You should never fear of becoming "too flexible", as long as your flexibility is adequately balanced with strength. You should be able to move throughout your full range of motion with balance and control. If you can't, you should spend more time on strength than flexibility. Usually, if you are involved in a sport which puts your flexibility to use (like martial arts, dance, gymnastics, acrobatics, and yoga), then you are OK. These activities all force strength and control throughout a full range of motion. In most cases, it should be safe for you to go for as much flexibility as your body will allow. Just listen carefully to your body, and be patient. Stretching is good for you!

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