Divers hear coaches talk about many things, and many times that information goes in one ear and out the other. Stretching is no doubt one of those things, but make no mistake, stretching is an important element of any divers’ training. Stretching before a workout or competition will help in injury prevention and assist in warm-up. Stretching after a workout or competition can help to increase flexibility and decrease muscle soreness. Here are six important reasons why a coaches words should go in one ear and stay put.
1. Stretching Increases Flexibility
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Increased flexibility, defined as the range of possible movement in a joint (such as a shoulder) and its surrounding muscles, enhances the ability of a diver to learn movements, skills and dives, and to train longer and harder. Flexibility also enhances a divers' balance – a key element of diving.
2. Stretching Helps Prepare for a Workout
Stretching increases an divers’ breathing rate, elevates the heart rate, warms muscles, and helps produce fluids that in a sense, lubricate a joint. This helps an athlete better prepare for practice or competition.3. Stretching Improves Circulation
Stretching increases blood flow to your muscles and aids in their recovery following a workout or competition. This improved circulation can also help speed recovery after injuries.4. Stretching Promotes Better Posture.
Have you ever seen a diver with bad posture – probably not. Body posture and body alignment are important elements of diving, and stretching aids in both developing, and keeping good posture. Stretchng keeps your muscles from getting tight after a workout, minimizes aches and pains, and allows a diver to maintain proper posture throughout their athletic career.5. Stretching Can Relieve Stress and Promote Mental Awareness
Stretching relaxes tense muscles that often accompany stress. By relieving stress, an athlete can increase mental and physical relaxation, allowing for better training and the ability to compete.6. Stretching Helps Prevent Injury
It is generally held belief that stretching helps prevent injury. A more flexible athlete with a higher level of physical fitness will be less likely to incur injury, and will recover quicker from an injury once it has occurred.
Always remember, any stretching program should be implemented and monitored by a certified coach, or strength and conditioning professional. Stretching without proper supervision can lead to an increased risk of injury. Always consult with a professional prior to embarking on any stretching or conditioning program.