Martial Arts Illustrated – January 2018

The single most important step in
developing our kicks has to be centred
around stretching correctly. Many martial
artists injure themselves through not
warming up before stretching and failing
to stretch before kicking. If stretching
is to be bene¿ cial and also safe, then
stretching exercises should be practised

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21

slowly. Remember, never to bounce or

stretch using jerky movements, as this

puts undue pressure on the tendons and

ligaments. When going into a stretch,

ease into it slowly until you begin to feel

a slight discomfort of tension on the

muscle then hold the position for around

30 seconds.

As a result of regular stretching, you will

begin to feel an improved À exibility, as

the muscle tissue elasticity is increased.

Also the likelihood of pulled muscles in

the legs will be decreased. It’s true that we

often make excuses such as, I’m too stiɣ to

stretch, when in fact we may only be stiɣ ,

due to the lack of stretching.

„ Bob Sykes

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Ò Master Sken

Kaewpdung

demonstrates the

results of regular

stretching