In order to improve flexibility and range of motion, many people turn to stretch exercises. But there are different types of stretching; one you may not be familiar with is ballistic stretching. Whatever form of exercise, it’s essential to understand what you’re doing and the potential risks before you start.
So, to help you better understand, here’s what you need to know about ballistic stretching.
Table of Contents
What Is Ballistic Stretching?
Ballistic stretching is a type of stretching that uses momentum to force the body into a stretched position. It is important to note that ballistic stretching should only be performed when the muscles are already warmed up, as there is a risk of injury if the muscles are cold. However, ballistic stretching can improve flexibility and range of motion and can also be used as a form of active recovery following strenuous exercise.
To perform a ballistic stretch, the individual will start by assuming a comfortable position. They will then execute a rapid movement that takes them beyond their current range of motion. As they reach the end of the movement, they will allow their body to “bounce” into the stretched position. Although ballistic stretching can be beneficial, it is important to use caution and not overstretch, as this can lead to joint or muscle damage.
What Does Ballistic Stretching Do?
The main purpose of ballistic stretching is to improve flexibility and range of motion. When performed correctly, it can also be used as a form of active recovery following strenuous exercise. Ballistic stretching forces the muscles to lengthen beyond their usual range of motion, which can increase flexibility.
Ballistic stretching can also help to improve the range of motion. Range of motion is the distance that a joint can move through its full range of motion. For example, if you are doing a shoulder stretch, the range of motion would be how far you can raise your arm above your head. Ballistic stretching can help to increase the range of motion by helping the muscles to lengthen and become more pliable.
Ballistic stretching can help athletes like dancers, football players, martial artists, and basketball players improve their range of motion while also boosting their performance. For example, using ballistic stretching to jump higher or kick with more power is possible.
Ballistic stretches use extra force to extend the muscles and tendons through a wider range of movement. Muscles have sensors internally that sense how far or hard they are being stretched. If these sensors detect too much tension, the muscle will signal to retract in order to protect the joint from injury. However, ballistic stretching bypasses these sensors with sheer force, allowing for greater stretch than what would normally be possible.
Is Ballistic Stretching Dangerous?
There is debate about ballistic stretching and its safety. Some experts believe that ballistic stretching can lead to joint or muscle injuries because it uses high-impact movements to achieve a stretch. Additionally, ballistic stretching does not allow the muscles to adjust gradually to the new range of motion, which could also lead to injury.
For these reasons, it is generally recommended that people avoid ballistic stretching. However, if it is performed with caution and under the supervision of a qualified trainer, it may be safe for some people. Ultimately, the decision to try ballistic stretching should be made after consulting with a doctor or other expert.
5 Ballistic Stretches
If you decide to try ballistic stretching, a few stretches can be particularly helpful in improving flexibility. Here are five ballistic stretches to try:
Squat Therapy
Squat therapy is a type of ballistic stretch that can help to improve the range of motion in the hips. To do squat therapy:
- Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and your hands behind your head.
- From here, lower your body into a squatting position.
- Once you reach the bottom of the squat, explode upward as quickly as possible.
- When you reach the top of the squat, allow your body to “bounce” into a deeper squatting position.
- Repeat this movement for 10-20 repetitions.
Sitting Toe Stretch
The sitting toe stretch is a ballistic stretch that can help to improve the range of motion in the ankles.
- To do this stretch, sit on the ground with your legs straight out in front of you.
- Reach forward and grab your toes, then pull your toes toward your body as far as you can.
- From here, explosively push your body upward, using your toes for leverage.
When you reach the top of the stretch, allow your body to “bounce” into a deeper stretching position. Repeat this movement for 10-20 repetitions.
Cossack Squats
Cossack squats are a type of ballistic stretch that can help to improve the range of motion in the hips and knees. To do cossack squats:
- Start in a standing position with your feet shoulder-width apart.
- From here, shift your weight to one leg and lift the other leg off of the ground.
- From this position, lower your body into a squatting position.
When you reach the bottom of the squat, explosively push your body upward, using your planted leg for leverage. When you reach the top of the stretch, allow your body to “bounce” into a deeper squatting position. Repeat this movement for 10-20 repetitions on each leg.
Reverse Couch Stretch
The reverse couch stretch is a ballistic stretch that can help improve the range of motion in the hips and lower back.
- To do this stretch, start by sitting on the ground with your legs straight out in front of you.
- Next, lie on your elbows and arch your back off the ground.
- From here, explosively push your body upward, using your elbows for leverage.
- When you reach the top of the stretch, allow your body to “bounce” into a deeper stretching position.
- Repeat this movement for 10-20 repetitions.
Runners Lunge
The runners’ lunge is a type of ballistic stretch that can help to improve the range of motion in the hips, knees, and ankles.
- To do this stretch, start in a standing position with your feet together.
- From here, take a large step forward with one leg and lower your body into a lunge position.
- When you reach the bottom of the lunge, explosively push your body upward, using your front leg for leverage.
- When you reach the top of the stretch, allow your body to “bounce” into a deeper lunge position.
- Repeat this movement for 5-10 repetitions on each leg.
Conclusion
Ballistic stretching can be an effective way to improve flexibility. However, it is important to consult a doctor or other expert before trying this stretch. In addition, be sure to warm up before stretching and cool down after stretching to reduce the risk of injury.