As yogis, we’re certainly aware of the many benefits of stretching — but are you aware of what the research actually says about how to stretch effectively? Or how to evaluate that research honestly?
On this week’s Yogaland, I’m sharing meta-analyses and systematic reviews to give you a clear, accurate, and intellectually honest picture of what actually increases flexibility.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- Why dynamic and passive stretching work through completely different mechanisms — and why you need both.
- What the research consistently shows about stretch intensity — and why moderate intensity outperforms both light and maximal stretching for tissue adaptation.
- The sweet spot for hold duration — and why total weekly volume matters more than any single session variable.
- The most important and most under-appreciated variable in flexibility training.
