No matter what activities a person does, stretching is a vital component of exceptional sports performance. After all, it’s what keeps muscles flexible and able to maintain exceptional range of motion. But how does this practice impact gymnastics specifically? To answer that question, the instructors at Top Flight Gymnastics in Columbia, MD, highlight a few key reasons to never skimp on stretching.

Reasons for Gymnasts to Stretch

Flexibility Training

When compared to many other sports, gymnastics is incredibly reliant on flexibility. From front handsprings to split leaps, the various exercises require muscle elongation the average human body wouldn’t be capable of. However, through stretching and repetitive practice, athletes can train the specific areas of their bodies to move in the way necessary to complete routines.

Refined Muscle Development

Although strength training exercises — such as weightlifting — can add bulk to muscles, stretching also plays a vital role. Specifically, stretches gradually increase muscle tension over time. With a higher capacity for tension, muscles grow bigger and stronger. In gymnastics, this added strength supports the body during routines and promotes refined balance.    

Heightened Endurance

Stretching is an essential warm-up activity, as it promotes healthy blood circulation. When oxygen and nutrients work through the body at optimal rates, muscles get all the support they need to stay strong during practice or competition.

Lower Risk of Injury

Without stretching, muscles become stiff. When this happens, a gymnast can face a higher risk of pulling a tendon or tearing a muscle. In addition, improved circulation also helps the body recover faster if an injury does occur and, thus, reduces the downtime an athlete may experience.

While stretching is a critical component for developing strong gymnastic skills, it is essential that athletes learn how to perform them correctly. That’s why the instructors at Top Flight Gymnastics take time to help all students learn the proper ways to stretch before and after activity. In addition to covering these basics, this facility offers several gymnastics training programs designed for a variety of skill levels. From tumbling classes to competitive training, this center works to help students master their form, improve strength, and achieve new capabilities on the mat. Find more details about their programs online or by calling an enrollment coordinator at (410) 992-1600.