Description
Book Synopsis This book and video package guides readers through proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching techniques, a safe and easy-to-use method that involves stretching the muscle, contracting it isometrically against resistance, and then stretching it again to increase range of motion.
Trade Review“If a picture is worth 1000 words, then a video is worth 10,000 words, particularly when it includes narration detailing how the body should be positioned and what the stretcher, and the partner if it is a partner stretch, should be doing at each point during the stretch. The use of the video demonstrations moves the book to a much higher level of teaching, and learning for the reader. Readers will be much more comfortable with, and knowledgeable of, doing the stretches and conditioning exercises after they have watched somebody else do it, and had key points explained to them. In sum, the combination of the printed book and the video demonstrations make this an outstanding resource for individuals wishing to enhance their movement ability in a variety of settings, and activities, through the use of effective stretching and movement techniques.”
Gordon Chalmers, PhD—Western Washington University
Table of ContentsPart I. The Prerequisites
Chapter 1. Understanding the Basics of Stretching
Soft Tissues Affected by Stretching
Muscle Interactions
Muscle Contractions
Reflexes Relevant to Facilitated Stretching
Types of Stretching
Guidelines for Stretching
Chapter Summary
Chapter 2. Focusing on Facilitated Stretching
PNF History
PNF Basis: Spiral–Diagonal Movement
PNF Stretching Techniques
Facilitated Stretching Guidelines
Detailed Sequence for Facilitated Stretching
Safety Considerations for Facilitated Stretching
Chapter Summary
Chapter 3. Using the Spiral–Diagonal Patterns of PNF
When and Why to Use Spiral-Pattern Stretches
Learning the Patterns Through Free Motion
Facilitated Stretching Using the Patterns
Lower Extremity Stretches Using the Patterns
Upper Extremity Stretches Using the Patterns
Strengthening Exercises Using the Patterns
Chapter Summary
Part II. The Stretches
Chapter 4. Stretches for the Torso and Neck
Oblique Abdominals
Lower Back
Upper Trapezius
Sternocleidomastoid
Scalenes
Suboccipitals
Levator Scapulae
Chapter 5. Stretches for the Lower Extremity
Hip Extensors
Hip Flexors
Hip Lateral (External) Rotators
Hip Medial (Internal) Rotators
Hip Abductors
Hip Adductors
Knee Extensors
Ankle Plantar Flexors
Ankle Dorsiflexors
Toe Flexors
Toe Extensors
Ankle Evertors: Peroneal (Fibularis) Group
Ankle Invertors
Chapter 6. Stretches for the Upper Extremity
Rotator Cuff
Scapular Stabilizers
Additional Muscles That Move the Arm
Elbow
Wrist and Hand
Supinators and Pronators
Chapter 7. Stretching Routines for Specific Activities
Everyday Sequence
Cycling
Golf
Ice Hockey
Running
Swimming
Throwing and Racket Sports
Rusty Hinges
