factors affecting flexibility

Question 1

what are the factors affecting flexibility

Answer 1

• type of joint
• length and elasticity of surrounding connective tissue
• gender
• age

Question 2

how does the type of joint affect flexibility

Answer 2

• Ball and socket joints (shoulder, hip) have a greater RoM in comparison to other joints e.g. hinge joints (elbow, knee, ankle)
• The size and shape of joints and their articulating bones can either aid or limit the RoM

Question 3

how does length and elasticity of surrounding connective tissue affect flexibility

Answer 3

• The greater the length and elasticity of the surrounding muscle, tendons and ligaments, the greater the RoM
• The greater the length, the greater the distance before the stretch reflex is initiated, preventing further RoM.
• The greater the elasticity, the greater the RoM at the joint

Question 4

how does gender affect flexibility

Answer 4

• Females are generally more flexible than males
• Females have higher levels of oestrogen and relaxin, the hormones responsible for muscle and connective tissue elasticity

Question 5

how does age affect flexibility

Answer 5

• Flexibility is greatest in childhood and declines with age
• Age-related decline in flexibility is due to a loss of elasticity in the connective tissue