The Navy SEAL Physical Fitness Guide - Human Performance

The Navy SEAL Physical Fitness Guide 257

A Short Flexibility Program

Flexibility exercises are an important physical fitness component and may add
years to your operational life. For those who have been injured, the “high mileage” SEAL
(see Chapter 14), or someone with naturally short muscles, a short flexibility program is
provided in Table 15-9.

Table 15-8. Exercises Eliminated from SEAL PT

Exercise Reason for Elimination

Windmills Potential for injury to discs and lower back

Back Stretch Potential for injury to cervical spine

Cherry Pickers Potential for injury to discs and lower back

Cross-Overs

(Hamstring Stretch)

Potential for injury to discs and lower back

Hand-to Toe Sit-Ups Mechanical stress on back; no benefit to abs.

Standing Head to Knee Potential for injury to discs and lower back

Standing Hamstring

Stretch

Potential for injury to back

2 Person Thigh Stretch Potential for injury to knee