PNF stretches can put extra stress on specific muscle groups. As a result, you can increase the risk of injury to the body’s soft tissue areas. Before participating in any PNF stretches, be sure to include a conditioning phase in your routine. Also, don’t neglect a warm up period prior to the stretches.

The timing recommendations for the stretches tend to differ depending on who you ask. Some say you should contract the muscle groups longer, some disagree about how long to rest between stretches and others disagree about how long to hold each stretch. These timing recommendations, however, are based on a thorough study and research of PNF stretching.

If you’re trying to improve your flexibility or athletic performance, stretching is one of the most important things you can do. It not only strengthens your muscles and joints before exercising, but it also helps to prevent sports-related injuries and helps in the rehabilitation process following an injury. A few minutes engaged in a simple warm up routine of several different stretches is well worth the effort. I can’t stress strongly enough not to neglect this vital part of every daily exercise routine. You could very well be doing more damage than good to your body.

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