Flexibility Training & the Holidays

The Philosophy of Strength through Length

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Strength through Length

The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, but it can also be a period of emotional stress and physical stagnation. At Facet Seven Fitness, we advocate for a holistic approach to fitness, emphasizing the concept of “strength through length,” or "length under load," to enhance both strength and flexibility. This method, combined with the natural process of pandiculation, offers profound benefits for the muscular system, keeping us nimble and relaxed while making our rounds for the holidays.

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Understanding "Strength Through Length" and how to build it with "Length Under Load"

The anatomy and movement of the human body creates an environment where all of our muscles are weaker in their lengthened positions.  Think about a bicep curl. If you have a weight that is difficult to curl, notice how much harder it is to curl the arm when it is fully lengthened or straight.  As you curl your arm, it gets easier to move the weight, or rather as the bicep muscle shortens you get stronger.  This applies to all of the muscles in the body.  Therefore, if we train and become stronger in the lengthened position, we become stronger overall.  

The way to train for this is using a model called "length under load," which involves lengthening muscles while they are actively engaged or under tension. This dynamic approach not only increases flexibility but also builds strength, providing a balanced workout that supports the body's structural integrity.

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Strength through Length = StL - Benefits for the Muscular System

1. Enhanced Muscle Elasticity: Lengthening muscles under load improves their elasticity, allowing them to stretch and contract more efficiently. This elasticity is crucial for maintaining joint health and preventing injuries, especially during the holiday season when we become more sedentary.
2. Increased Muscle Strength: By engaging muscles while they are lengthened, you develop strength throughout the entire range of motion. This style of strength training ensures that muscles are robust and resilient, ready to handle any activity.
3. Improved Muscle Coordination:  Training length under load enhances neuromuscular coordination, teaching your muscles to work together more effectively. This improved coordination translates to smoother, more controlled movements, whether you're dancing at a holiday party or carrying heavy gifts.
4. Joint Decompression: As muscles lengthen and strengthen, they become comfortably long in their resting state, which helps decompress the joints by reducing pressure and enhancing mobility. This decompression is vital for maintaining comfort and ease during the holidays, when joint stress can be exacerbated by prolonged sitting.

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The Role of Pandiculation

Pandiculation is the natural process of stretching and yawning that resets the muscular system. It's a spontaneous response to tension, helping to release muscle tightness and improve flexibility. When integrated with length under load training, pandiculation can amplify the benefits by:

• Resetting Muscle Length: Pandiculation helps reset the resting length of muscles, ensuring they remain flexible and responsive.
• Releasing Tension: This natural process releases accumulated tension, promoting relaxation and reducing stress.
• Enhancing Mind-Body Connection: Pandiculation encourages mindfulness, helping you become more attuned to your body's needs and movements.

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Incorporating Length Under Load into Your Routine

At Facet Seven Fitness, our STRENGTHCON class incorporates length under load principles to optimize your fitness routine. By focusing on flexibility and strength, you'll not only enhance your physical performance but also enjoy a more balanced and stress-free holiday season.

Ready to experience the transformative power of length under load and pandiculation? Join us at Facet Seven Fitness and discover how our innovative approach can elevate your holiday wellness journey. Happy Holidays!

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