While flexibility training can improve posture and joint range of motion, much like other forms of exercise, it must be systematic and progressive. Attempting flexibility exercises that are too difficult can cause more harm than good. For example, static stretching should be mastered and pre-existing muscle imbalances corrected, prior to moving on to dynamic stretching.
When initiating a flexibility program, first target the mechanically shortened muscles. A quick postural assessment is useful in determining which muscles may be tight and require additional stretching. Clients who have any muscle imbalances should opt for SMR and static stretching techniques. Once these muscle imbalances have been corrected, one can progress to dynamic stretching. Certain muscles are susceptible to shortening and tightness based on a person’s activity level and posture.