Science of Flexibility

Science of Flexibility has long been considered the leading reference on the topic, and this second edition reaffirms that status. No other book covers these concepts and principles better.

Based on the latest research, this completely revised and updated edition includes five new chapters, nearly doubling the content. These chapters discuss

• the hypermobility of joints,
• joint manipulation and chiropractic adjustment,
• controversial stretches,
• the relationship of stretching and special populations, and
• the functionality of stretching and flexibility for specific sports and health conditions.

In the first few chapters, readers will learn about factors that limit flexibility, such as the titin filament in muscle, plasticity in the spinal cord’s neural circuits, and the influence of circadian cycles.

The remaining chapters discuss how such limiting factors can be modified to enhance joint range of motion. These chapters feature a variety of techniques to enhance flexibility throughout the body.

With more than 1,400 scholarly and professional references and over 200 illustrations, photos, and tables, Science of Flexibility is invaluable for

• exercise scientists,
• health and fitness professionals,
• athletic trainers,
• sport physical therapists and chiropractors,
• massage therapists, and
• instructors and practitioners of dance, yoga, and the martial arts.

It’s also an excellent textbook for physical therapy, massage therapy, and other professional therapy training programs.

A former gymnast, coach, and nationally certified men's gymnastics judge, Michael J. Alter is an expert on the subject of stretching. The first edition of his book, Science of Stretching, as well as the how-to book Sport Stretch, received rave reviews from athletes, coaches, trainers, and sports medicine professionals.

Alter earned his MS in health education from Florida International University in 1976. He taught high school physical education and coached gymnastics for several years prior to his current position in Miami as a high school teacher of history.

Alter has been a guest lecturer at annual meetings across the country, including the 1994 Chiropractic Sports Science Symposium and the 1992 Scientific Meeting of the North American Society of Pediatric Exercise Medicine.

In his leisure time, Alter enjoys bicycling, listening to classical music, working out with weights, and studying sports medicine.