More flexibility through strength training?!

Strength training eliminates muscle tightness and improves flexibility! Most people associate strength training solely with increasing strength and even with a decrease in flexibility. Contrary to popular belief, a particular study by a leading training expert proves exactly the opposite. The key is how you perform the exercises!

Technique is Everything
Generally, people with well-developed muscles often appear to be inflexible, but this perception is often skewed by an excess of muscle mass. A person with an abundance of muscle may be less flexible due to their muscle size, but not because the muscles themselves are inflexible. In reality, strength training can even enhance our flexibility, and this effect can be long-lasting. To truly achieve this, it’s essential to perform the exercises correctly—specifically, by using the full range of motion.

Range of Motion
The range of motion describes how fully we can perform a movement. For example, in a squat, how deep can we go? To use squats to increase the flexibility of the thigh muscles, we need to squat as deeply as possible. If our goal were to reduce our flexibility, we would only perform a partial squat. This example clearly shows how important it is to use the full range of motion in training.

Does this mean I don’t need to stretch anymore?
Even though proper execution of strength exercises positively contributes to improved flexibility, mobility training should always be included as a supplement. While training through the full range of motion does enhance flexibility, certain muscle groups may still have significant tightness due to our daily movement patterns and postures, which should be addressed separately.

Playing It Safe
Armed with new knowledge and eager to put it into practice, caution is still advised. To stay safe, it’s always a good idea to consult a trainer before trying out new exercises, techniques, and movements. Exercise execution can vary from person to person and should always be tailored to the individual’s current physical condition. Once your trainer gives you the green light—get ready to hit that ROM for more flexibility and strength!