PNF Stretch Therapy

PNF is a form of stretching designed to increase flexibility of muscles and increase range of movement. PNF is a progressive stretch involving muscle contraction and relaxation.

The progressive stretching and change between contraction and relaxation allows the muscle to adapt to its new position each time it is held in position. This allows it to stretch further the next time. If this is done on a regular basis, gains can be made in flexibility and range of movement.

PNF can be of benefit to individuals recovering from muscle damage as part of treatment. It can also help healthy individuals to increase flexibility and range of movement. This can be beneficial for sporting activities to improve the body’s ability to perform.

Research has repeatedly shown that proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching techniques provide the most gains in increasing range of motion (ROM) in the shortest amount of time. Human Kinetics