AboutBrad Walker (The Stretch Coach) Expertise I'm more than happy to answer any questions relating to stretching and flexibility. Including how to use stretching to improve your athletic performance, prevent sports injury and aid in the recovery of sports injury.
Experience I'm an internationally recognized stretching and sports injury consultant with 20 years of practical experience in the health and fitness industry. And the founder of (The Stretching Institute).
Organizations Sports Medicine Australia
Publications I've written 5 books on stretching, flexibility and sports injury, including... The Stretching Handbook (ISBN: 978-0958109338), The Anatomy of Stretching (ISBN: 978-1556435966) and The Anatomy of Sports Injuries (ISBN: 978-1556436666). Plus, I've had numerous articles published at About.com, Athletes.com and BodyBuilding.com.
Education/Credentials I'm a health science graduate of the University of New England, with post graduate accreditations in athletics, swimming and triathlon coaching. I've worked with elite level and world champion athletes and I lecture for Sports Medicine Australia on injury prevention.
Past/Present Clients I've worked as assistant coach to Miles Stewart (World Champion Triathlete) and Mick Doohan (World 500cc Motorcycle Champion). Plus I've worked with countless other athletes from sports as diverse as roller-skating, squash, and cycling.
Ever since I was a child ive had a very poor posture: rounded upper spine and forward shoulders. From about the age of 13 i made an effort to try and straighten my posture but this caused me back, neck and leg stiffness.
I'm now 17 and practically all my muscles are tight (neck, back,triceps, biceps hamstrings, shins,pelvis, calves etc!!)and my posture still remains poor and the only way i can stand or sit tall is to force myself to stand upright whixh is uncomfertable. A sports coach told me I have very poor core stability which is the cause of my problems.
What is the best way to deal with my problems? Physiotherapy, massage, pilates?? Your help would be much appreciated, Im only 17 and feel like an old man!!!
Many thanks, mark
Answer Hi Mark
Thanks for your inquiry. It's a pleasure to help and I hope the following is beneficial.
The best way to approach this problem is with a structured routine of strength exercises to strengthen the muscles that are weak. And stretching exercises to improve the flexibility of the muscles that are tight.
As you can imagine, it's near impossible for me to outline a detailed exercises routine over the Internet. So I would suggest that you work with a qualified personal trainer or sports coach on these issues.
I hope the above has been helpful. For more information on how to stretch properly and the best stretching exercises for you, visit www.TheStretchingInstitute.com
Brad Walker
Founder & CEO
The Stretching Institute
