Flexibility Flashcards
What is static flexibility?
Range of motion about a joint without reference to speed of movement.
e.g. gymnast holding a split balance
What is static active flexibility?
Performer completes a voluntary contraction to move a joint beyond its point of resistance.
What is static passive flexibility?
Performer is assisted by a partner to move a joint beyond its point of resistance.
What is dynamic flexibility?
The range of motion about a joint with reference to speed of movement. It reflects a joints muscles and connective tissues resistance to movement.
e.g. a javelin thrower at the shoulder
How does the type of joint affect flexibility?
Ball and socket joints have greater range of motion than hinge joints. The size and shape of joints and their articulating bones can aid or limit the range of motion.
How does length and elasticity of surrounding connective tissue affect flexibility?
The greater the length and elasticity of surrounding muscle, tendons and ligaments, the greater range of motion. The greater the length the greater the distance before the stretch reflex is initiated, preventing further range of motion. The greater the elasticity, the greater the range of motion with a joint.
How does gender affect flexibility?
Females are generally more flexible than males. Females have higher levels of estrogen an relaxin, the hormones responsible for muscle and connective tissue elasticity.
How does age affect flexibility?
Flexibility is greatest in childhood and declines with age. Age-related decline in flexibility is due to loss of elasticity in the connective tissues.
