Unlocking the Secrets of Flexibility: Nature vs. Nurture

Are we born flexible, or do we become flexible over time? It’s a question that’s intrigued fitness enthusiasts and scientists alike. Let’s delve into flexibility and uncover the truth.

Contrary to popular belief, our exercise routines and physical activities play only a minor role in determining our flexibility.

Surprisingly, a significant portion of our flexibility is predetermined by our genetics, though the extent varies widely. Some studies suggest it could be as high as 70%, while others propose it may be closer to 20%.

Yes, you read that right – your DNA holds a considerable influence over how bendy you can actually get.

But it’s not just genetics calling the shots. Hormones and hydration levels also have a say, albeit a marginal one, in our flexibility journey. And let’s not forget about our skeletal architecture – the unique framework of our bones shapes much of our mobility and movement capacities.

So what about those post-workout rituals like foam rolling and stretching? While they have their benefits, they don’t significantly enhance our flexibility. Instead, their true advantage lies in soothing our frazzled nervous systems.

Think about it – in our fast-paced, chaotic lives, taking a moment to stretch not only loosens our muscles but also calms our minds. It’s like hitting the reset button after a hectic day, allowing us to unwind and prepare for whatever comes next because we have interacted positively with our nervous system.

Now you may be reading this feeling a little confused because since you started your yoga classes you have definitely become more flexible. Haven’t you?

Well yes and no.

All the factors we have mentioned play a role then there is something called our stretch tolerance.

When we try and, for example, execute a forward fold, our stretch tolerance will kick in and say “whoah, wait a minute this isn’t something we usually do, I’m not sure if this is safe so I will protect you and put the brakes on.”

The more we visit this movement, the more, the brain perceives it as being safe and familiar so our stretch tolerance increases – we can think of this as our brain gradually taking our training wheels off.

So our tolerance changes as our nervous system is retrained…

If you have visited me in a private capacity for pain sessions to help you or a training in how to teach other people about pain, you will understand that or nervous system is in charge of everything and training sensory before motor can be extremely beneficial for some.

In the end, whether we’re born flexible or not, the journey towards greater mobility is about more than just touching our toes. It’s about understanding our bodies, embracing our limitations, and finding moments of tranquility amidst the chaos.

So let’s stretch, breathe, and embrace the flexibility of both body and mind whilst understanding we are all going to look and feel different doing it and comparing ourselves to others is futile. Just as in the gym, not everyone will lift 300 kilograms or run a marathon, we are all unique individuals, and while we can each improve and influence our strength and flexibility, our journeys will be as individual as we are.

However, the similarities lie in understanding that flexibility prevents absolutely nothing but can create positive interactions with our nervous system and learning that this may also be creating great foundations for when inevitable pain or injury occur.