By Dr. G. John Mullen, Swimming World Contributor
If you followed the Olympics, you probably saw many Olympians receiving soft tissue (massage) and self soft tissue (self-myofascial releases; SMR) on the pool deck. The increase in use of these techniques has been recommended by many in the sporting community. I have even suggested SMR should replace static stretching, for those seeking improvements in flexibility. Both static stretching and SMR have their place, but never is one treatment/plan the best for everyone.
I made this suggestion based on the research which suggests stretching impairs force production, whereas SMR doesn’t impair force production (Macdonald 2012). We also have research which suggests SMR improves range of motion, similar to static stretching.
Before everyone has a tizzy fit, I still do prescribe static stretching for some swimmers and patients at my physical therapy clinic. However, I do find myself providing more SMR each day! However, we still don’t know much about SMR. Many would be surprised that SMR doesn’t likely alter tissue properties. This may leave you wondering, what does SMR improve? Is it even beneficial?
View full post on swimmingworldmagazine
Contact Swim.ae for swimming lessons in Dubai.
______________________________________________________________
Whatsapp number: +971 56 583 0067 (when sending whatsapp message pls mention code Swim10461)
Contact us : Fill in the form and we will get back to you asap.
Contact Trainer
______________________________________________________________
Swim.ae does all the relevant checks for you. All swimming instructors from swim.ae have the right visa and are fully qualified to train you.
Get in touch with us today, Private Swimming lessons are available in all parts of UAE.