Unlock Your Hip Flexors Pdf Download Mike Westerdal | Page 96

One of the functions of healthy muscle is to absorb the stress that we
place on our bodies through walking, sitting and performing other
functional activities. An elongated and weakened muscle has a
diminished capacity to absorb stress; the result is increased stress on the
joints of the body.
This why a sachet style of walking that is often seen in hyper flexible
people with the pelvis moving excessively from side to side, can be
harmful to joint health. The joints of the lower back and the pelvis are
constantly in a state of overuse they are not receiving the cushioned
effect that normal muscle ought to be providing.
Individuals who have muscles that are chronically overstretched are
seldom aware of it. Many people actually develop neuroses about
stretching. They stretch every time they get a chance and feel that it is a
necessary part of their fitness routine, even if they are encountering pain.
Newcomers to yoga witness the flexibility of their classmates and
instructors and immediately feel inadequate. As with any group activity,
a sense of competition with fellow students may also develop. There is
also the basic psychological need to please your teacher.
All of these factors contribute to the larger picture of muscles that are in
a chronically lengthened state. It is also worth mentioning that many
people are born with an excessive amount of joint and muscle flexibility.
There are many people who can, while standing, touch the palms of both
hands to the floor without any prior stretching or practice.
These people in short do not need to pursue stretching as a form of
exercise; they would be much better off working on core strengthening
through activities such as Pilates. Women are more likely than men to
fall into this category.