The flexibility of most individuals is greatly affected by their modern lifestyle and work environment. Working in a cramped office or sitting in a car for long periods of time leads to weakening of some muscles and the tightening and shortening of others.

"Without optimum levels of flexibility, it is impossible to achieve optimum performance and function"(Clark MA, NASM)

Flexibility is needed for good posture and proper form which is essential when performing any type of exercise or activity. Exercising with poor flexibility will strengthen the poor posture increasing the strain on the joints and soft tissues. This will quickly lead to muscle imbalances and overuse injuries.

 When the body is flexible and in good posture the muscles are at their correct length\tension relationship which means they can contract efficiently. There is less wearing or tearing down of the ligaments and joints in the body. The natural posture of the body will improve if you strengthen the muscles in their natural postural position.

As an Integrated flexibility specialist I can tailor the correct stretching and strengthening within your training program.

Keep it fresh

Exercise programs should be regularly changed to keep it mentally as well as physically stimulating. The human body has an amazing ability to adapt to physical demands and stressed placed upon it. In regard to exercise this will mean a drop in muscle stimulation and calories burned. A plateau will quickly be reached if your exercise program is not kept fresh. I keep my clients out of a plateau by incorporating different styles of training into their routines. If their aim is weightloss, this might include progressive circuits, kick boxing, plyometrics and jumping rope.

Maintain goals

The people who stick to a consistent exercise routine and achieve the most out of it set themselves a tangible goal. Even if you are not seeking a body change and are just maintaining what you have it is still important to set regular goals. Long term goals are good but even better are short term more easily reachable ones. This aids in motivation and maintaining exercise regularity.

I set my clients short and long term goals to give them a reason to exercise. A short term goal might be to lose a certain amount of bodyweight in a week, perform an exercise for a given number of repetitions or performing a circuit of exercises in a shorter period of time. I would like to mention that cardiovascular activity is an area that people are often lax in for setting some sort of goal. People often fall into a groove with cardio doing the same intensity etc day in day out. Boring! Motivate yourself by setting short term goals.

Be consistent

You cannot expect to reach your goals overnight. It takes commitment and perseverance. This means exercising regularly and not falling off track. Planning is key in maintaining consistency. Exercise time should be scheduled just as importantly as other commitments. This your health we are talking about!