Flexibility Training: Types of Joints
Flexibility Training: Types of Joints
Flexibility Training: Types of Joints
o Flexibility is defined as the ability of the bodies’ joints to move through a full range
of motion.
o Full range of motion is determined by the physical make up of the joint. In other
words, the bone structure and the arrangement of surrounding muscles, tendons,
and ligaments all dictate the movement and function of the joint.
o Flexibility is variable. The range of motion in most joints can be increased with
proper training techniques or can decrease with disuse.
o There are five factors that contribute to the limitations of movement:
Bone structure
Muscular arrangements surrounding the joint.
Connective tissue within the joint capsule. The joint capsule is composed
of ligaments (connects bones to other bones) and cartilage (soft tissue that
cushions the ends of bones).
The next factor is tendons. Tendons connect muscle to the bone and
ligaments surrounding the joint.
The epidermis (skin) is the final factor effecting range of motion.
o Improvements due to flexibility training only changes muscle, connective tissue,
and tendons. Flexibility training does not change the bone structure of the joint or
the elasticity of the skin.
o Muscles, connective tissue, and tendons provide the most resistance to the bodies’
movement. Therefore, exercises aimed at improving flexibility must target one of
these factors in order to improve range of motion.
o Adaptations to the muscle and tendons are the most desirable factors to alter in
terms of soft tissues. Stretching the ligaments of the joint capsule may lead to a
loose joint that would be highly susceptible to injury.
TYPES OF JOINTS
FLEXIBILITY EXERCISING