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Martial arts have grown in popularity over the years, and just as programs differ, the stretching requirements for them differ, also. Taekwondo, northern shaolin and savate all have many movements requiring extremely high kicks, and so flexibility stretching programs for them should emphasize stretching the legs, increasing the flexibility in hamstrings and hips; however, in the grappling arts the flexibility stretches would focus more on the core body and arms. A newcomer to martial arts should focus on overall flexibility, and develop more customized martial arts stretching program as advancement in the program is achieved.

A good martial arts stretching program should include several parts to maximum efforts, as well as maintain safety. Here are tips to help keep your program of flexibility stretches both effective and completely safe.

1. Morning Stretching

Martial arts stretching each morning is a great way to keep improving. These flexibility stretches should be done on an empty stomach and last no more than 30 minutes. Be sure to include a warm up, a few dynamic type stretches and a cool down. Static, isometric or PNF stretches should be set aside for your primary stretching workout because they are too taxing to your muscles and are harder to recover from. Once you get used to starting your day with stretching, you will be very pleased with the results.

2. Warm Up Exercises

A dual warm-up procedure is an important part of a martial arts stretching workout. Begin with general calisthenics to increase blood flow and body temperature. Next, the specific warm-up has dynamic, more specific flexibility stretches that mimic your martial art. In order to loosen up and prevent injury, an appropriate warm-up is especially critical in the morning. Next, it’s time for the primary stretching routine, focusing on the flexibility needs of your particular style.

3. Cool Down Period

It is imperative to take the time for a cool-down process as part of your morning martial arts stretching program. The cool down is similar to the warm-up in that it allows additional blood flow to the muscles which speeds recovery of the muscles.

4. Precautions

Martial arts stretching is meant to keep your body limber and safe as you improve your skills in your specific martial art. If you don’t stretch properly, you could damage your skeletal system, muscles, or connective tissues, permanently delaying your progress. If you want to make your flexibility stretches safer, be sure to:

* You should consult with your doctor before beginning a stretching program or training routine. This meeting will give you confidence and peace of mind as you move into the program and establish your routine.

* Flexibility stretches should never cause pain at any time. As the muscles lengthen you may feel warmth, or a slight burning, but it is important to know that you should never feel pain. Even slight pain serves as a warning that you may be stressing your body, and ignoring the pain can result in micro-tearing of muscles and connective tissues, will leave scar tissue and can actually decrease your flexibility. If you ever feel pain while stretching, be it mild or severe, it is important that you consult with your doctor.

* Do not bounce or bob during stretching. This is called ballistic stretching and carries an unnecessary risk of injury.

I invite you to use this martial arts stretching information to increase the benefit of your stretching routine by rapidly increasing your functional flexibility.

To learn even more of the latest martial arts stretching routines, flexibility stretches, and techniques that will boost your flexibility fast, visit www.MartialArtsStretching.com now.

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