NASM provides an integrated model of flexibility that includes corrective, active, and functional flexibility categories. The specific techniques used within the Integrated Flexibility Continuum are as follows:

Integrated Flexibility Continuum

Corrective Flexibility – designed to increase joint ROM for shortened muscles. It is specifically for the areas of hypomobility.

Active Flexibility

Functional Flexibility

This episode talks about just because muscles “feel” tight doesn’t mean that they are in fact tight. Assessments are to be done to identify shortened muscles verses lengthened muscles. In an integrated model the progression from on type of flexibility category to another should be aspired to. As initial limits in ROM begin to increase through corrective strategies, more active techniques can be applied to provide strength to the new found ROM. Just like in the OPT model, once strength gains are made, speed can be applied. In this case, functional flexibility can include dynamic flexibility techniques where momentum and speed are added to the stretch. This integrated flexibility continuum is a brilliant, yet simple model to follow to support our client’s flexibility needs. 

Key Terms: 

Muscle Spindle = “Stretch-O-Meter”

Golgi Tendon Organ (GTO) – “Tension-O-Meter” 

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