Does Stretching Make You Weaker?


Static stretching, in which you move into an exaggerated position and hold it, temporarily weakens your muscles. But there is evidence to suggest that stretching can also increase strength, if you add weight to it. Try this trick, and you'll instantly increase your pullup power.

HERE'S WHAT YOU DO

After your first set of pullups, rest, and then grab onto the bar again as if you were going to begin another set. Just hang there for 15 seconds, concentrating on the stretch in your lats. Now let go of the bar and rest 30 seconds. Afterward, begin your next set of pullups. We bet you'll be able to get a few more reps, or, if you're doing weighted pullups, you'll be able to add a little more weight. Stretching a muscle with resistance (in this case, your body weight in a dead hang) creates elastic energy in the muscles and tendons that's stored until your next set. When you begin your next pullup, the energy will be released and propel you upward, like a boost from an invisible hand.



Hyson, Men's Fitness

 
 




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Sport Specific Training Exercise of the week
Supine Chest Flys with Strength Training Bands - Lying on your back with a Strength Training Band under your shoulders, do Supine Chest Flys. Do 3 sets of 10 reps.
 
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