Benefits of PNF stretching

Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) is an advanced form of flexibility training that involves stretching and contracting (activation) muscle groups to increase range of motion. PNF works by actively increasing the length of the muscle and neuromuscular efficiency, which helps to increase flexibility and can even build strength.

Everyone can benefit from PNF stretching – whether you’re getting started or you want to push your fitness to the next level – or even those re-building strength after an injury or operations. One of the Exeter Golf and Country Club Personal Trainers, Vince Mann, incorporates this into many of his PT sessions with clients for these reasons.

Vince said, “PNF stretching has been proven to improve active and passive range of motion. It can be used to supplement daily, static stretching and has been shown to help athletes improve performance and make speedy gains in range of motion, flexibility and strength.”

Multiple research studies have shown that PNF stretching outperforms traditional static stretching especially for targeting specific muscle groups.

One of the clients Vince has been working with, is Andrew. Having had both hips replaced, he is now working on strength and mobility with Vince. Vince has been focusing his PNF work with Andrew on improving his postured and alignment of his legs, spine and shoulders.

For other clients, it’s about achieving a higher level of athletic performance. Research proves that two or three PNF sessions a week, especially after a high intensity work-out, can help repair microscopic muscle damage that typically follows a work-out of this type. The golden rule – is PNF after exercise or training – never before.

Of course, you don’t need a partner or PT to help with PNF stretching – although it can help deliver better results – you can do it on your own.

If you would like personal training – book five sessions and get the 6th one free.