Why Are Some Individuals More Flexible Than Others?

Here are a number of different factors that may contribute to why some people are more flexible than others. Genetics, gender, exercise history and other reasons contribute to a person’s flexibility. Let’s dive deeper into what makes a person flexible.

Your Age

Aging is a major factor when it comes to flexibility. As you age, your muscles and joints become stiffer and less flexible. Also, having an inactive lifestyle and not stretching regular throughout your life can accelerate your inflexibility as you age. It is recommended to stay active, limber and healthy throughout your life.

Exercise and Work History

If you’ve spent a majority of your life in an office job, sitting and leaning forward to look at your computer, your body will suffer in the long run. Sitting for long periods of time will cause your flexibility to gradually diminish.

Gender (Are Women More Flexible Than Men?)

Gender surprisingly plays a role in flexibility as well. In general, women are typically more naturally flexible than men, part of this is because of the makeup of their connective tissue. Now this is a generalization, but work with us. Women typically focus on activities that require more flexibility, such as yoga, dancing, pilates, etc.

Genetics

Some people are just more flexible than others! Even if people are more flexible because of genetics, do not underestimate the power of lifestyle habits. Stretching 10 to 15 minutes each day will make a huge difference in flexibility.

Muscle Tension

A tense muscle is a short muscle. Most stretching techniques have the purpose of causing your muscles to relax before lengthening them. The muscles don’t actually get longer when you stretch, they in turn, stop contracting.

How You Can Become More Flexible

• It’s best to stretch when your muscles are warm. This helps prevent pulling a muscle. Stretching also prevents soreness after an exercise.
• Know your body and don’t push yourself too hard. If you try to stretch deeper and feel a pain, then slowly ease out of your stretch.
• When your muscles are warm and stretched slowly, they will respond much better. So when you stretch, move with complete awareness of your body. Gently go deeper into your poses.
• Practice consistency. In order to experience progress in your flexibility, you must stretch regularly. You’ll be surprised how much stretching three times a week makes a difference.
• Sometimes holding a pose for only 5 breaths might not be enough. It’s okay to stay in your stretch for a few minutes.
• Our bodies are different. If you had a really great day of stretching yesterday, your muscles might not be up to the task today. It’s okay, be patient.