Facilitated Stretching

by Robert E.; Charland McAtee, Jeff Charland

When Facilitated Stretching was published in 1993, it was the first book to translate the complexities of PNF (proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation) stretching into an easy, step-by-step method for athletes, coaches, and sports medicine professionals. Now fully updated and expanded, Facilitated Stretching is an even better resource that makes PNF stretching accessible to everyone. The book shows you how to perform 66 facilitated stretches covering all the major muscles and muscle groups. PNF stretching consists of three simple stretch the muscle, contract it isometrically against resistance, then stretch it again. Simple, yet highly effective. These steps apply whether you’re isolating one muscle at a time or using the spiral diagonal patterns of PNF to stretch groups of muscles simultaneously. This new edition features the latest PNF stretching techniques to help improve range of motion, reduce overuse injuries that result from muscle fatigue, and enable easy assessment of current muscle function. The book has been expanded to include a broader scope of stretches featuring 14 additional muscle groups and an expanded number of self-stretches. You’ll also find a new section on using facilitated stretching along with soft tissue therapy for reducing pain and restoring range of motion lost due to injury. Facilitated Stretching is a cutting-edge tool that uses the science behind PNF stretching to develop an easy-to-use method to improve flexibility and range of motion.

Genres: Health

152 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 1993

Reviews

[Lawrence]

Great book on the topic of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitated (PNF) stretching. The general concept is covered then applied in the various stretches, both with a partner and self-stretches. The stretch descriptions are well written and supported by information around the relevant muscle groups and functional assessment of them. A DVD is included to further illustrate the stretches. As with many other books published by Human Kinetics, the information is very practical and useful.

[Tim Gannon]

Very well written. It comes with online videos of many of the stretches. Initially it provides a great background on stretching and then goes on to provide a number of stretches for each body part that can be done alone or with a partner.

[Elena]

Read as part of a continuing education course. Geared to fitness professionals. Good explanations, great online video companion.