Flexibility is a key part of all forms of exercise, extending reach and allowing freer movement and increased mobility. But what are the factors influencing our flexibility and what are the optimal flexibility exercises, methods, duration and dosage to increase our flexibility?


This comprehensive guide answers all of these questions and more, considering research from over 2,500 studies to convey a thorough understanding of how flexibility, mobility, and stretching affect exercise. It explores the mechanics of flexibility and mobility - what causes differences between individuals, and how a person's level of flexibility can change over time and through directed effort. It also compares a wide variety of techniques to improve performance, to treat limited mobility or recover from injury.


Essential reading for any movement professional, from personal trainers to movement and physical therapists, this book will revolutionise your understanding of movement and show you how to effectively improve your clients' performance and injury recovery.

This book provides up to date, topical and clear information on flexibility and stretching based on peer-reviewed science that is written so that lay readers to researchers can use and appreciate it. * Professor David G. Behm PhD, Fellow: CSEP, ECSS, School of Human Kinetics and Recreation, Memorial University of Newfoundland *
A thoughtful synthesis of current stretching research, this book brings together key findings in a clear and accessible way. A valuable resource for anyone looking to better understand the science of flexibility. * Jules Mitchell, Author of Yoga Biomechanics: Stretching Redefined *

Dr Gerard van der Poel is a Human Movement Scientist and Exercise Physiologist. He is the owner and CEO of Infomotion and is a teacher, author and consultant in the field of exercise and physical training. He runs professional continuing education courses in the Netherlands, on the subjects of exercise physiology and training principles, exercise testing, sports analysis, and clinical exercise physiology.