Flexibility: An Optimal Range to Minimize Injury Risk

Stretching and flexibility are important components of athletic performance and general fitness. Though many individuals and athletic professionals take into account flexibility, the concept that a certain range of joint motion places one at an increased risk of injury has not been fully explored. This paper seeks to review the research on hip, shoulder, ankle, and spine ranges of motion that increase risk of injury to an athlete, it seeks to provide information on the best way to increase flexibility and range of motion. While this paper provides an insight as to what these potential ranges are, the overall research in the area is lacking and further research is suggested.