How does strength training help flexibility?

Strength training makes you more flexible. "That's impossible!" you might say. "I can't touch my toes." But when you're stronger, your muscles will learn controlled movement through the full range of every joint, and thus you will be better equipped to stretch more deeply and safely. You can support your joints in those extended positions used for stretching, rather than injuring them.

Joint stability is enhanced with the muscles that surround the joint becoming strengthened and providing better stretch tolerance. Stronger tissues help to protect the joint during stretching activities by decreasing protective tension responses within the surrounding tissues. The result of this joint protection is a safer path to an enhanced range of motion, which can lead to further developed flexibility.

Plateau prevention happens when strength training generates a muscle adaptation that complements stretching. In many cases, the plateau in flexibility occurs due to neurological protection rather than any limitation within the tissues themselves. Through strength training, this protective response is mitigated, paving the way for further adaptation.

Muscle balance corrects asymmetries that restrict flexibility. Many flexibility limitations stem from weaknesses in opposing muscle groups. Strengthening underactive muscles allows overactive ones to release naturally, creating balanced functional mobility.

Plan strength sessions ahead of stretching when merging approaches. Do the resistance exercises through their full ranges of motion first, then stretch those worked muscles. By doing this, you can take full advantage of both muscle fatigue and the heat generated in your muscles for even safer and deeper flexibility benefits.

Read the full article: How to Improve Flexibility: 7 Effective Ways