What is Passive Flexibility?

What studies say:

“Static passive stretching is useless, most of the time.

Passive flexibility does nothing to increase control, reduce injury risk, or improve overall health.”

That said, SOMETIMES, static passive stretching is good for you. Sometimes the passive range of motion work is necessary, and sometimes passive flexibility is the only option available!

But what is it?

When we talked about passive stretching or passive flexibility we are referring to the act of holding a position where our muscles are being stretched with the help of an external force.

For example:

Maybe you can do a lotus pose, (legs courses with the feet close to your hips)

or half lotus pose ( one leg only)

However, you can only get there if you are helping your legs to get to this position with your hands.

What about if you try t get there just using your leg’s power?

😉 No that easy, right?!

Well, that is a clear example of passive flexibility.

It can be “useless’ and it can be also benefitial.

Here I am going to share 3 reasons why we should practice passive flexibility from time to time.

(Disclaimer: this applies to injuries-free bodies, with no hypermobility or any other individual situations.

And that you always need to check with your doctor or qualified health professional.)

Benefits of practicing passive flexibility:

1. This can be a good option if active stretching is not possible for that specific move or body type performing the move.
2. It can be a great way to help your brain to feel comfortable and understand that you are “safe” in a stretching position. Using passive stretching as a stepping stone to get into active flexibility.
3. It can feel good and relaxing specifically for hypermobile people because is like we are not doing much”. However, is not recommended to practice passive flexibility all the time as this can bring injuries due to the lack of strength.

Now not everyone needs to have an incredible range of motions and active flexibility or get into super bendy positions

Because In real-life there are not many times where we will need to touch our toes with our legs straight to perform a daily activity.

Not everyone needs to get into perfect splits!

This depends on the disciplines you choose to practice (professional or personal)

The key will be to find that perfect balance between flexibility, strength and mobility and how much or how little do you need of each will depend on what do you need it for.

If you are “normal” being with “normal” daily activities, practicing passive flexibility from time to time will definitely help you increase your overall body flexibility, to feel good with your simple daily activities like tightening the laces of your shoes or gardening and will help you to reduce stress by tuning in and feeling more connected with your body.

Being all that I just mentioned the purpose of the following classes.

• Sunday, October 24th, 2021, at 5:30 pm  EST

• Wednesday, October 27th, at 6 pm EST