The Necessity of Stretching
By Ms. Marian Schwartz
The
groans heard from the ranks as I give commands for a series of stretching
exercises indicates we need to do more of this. The pain we feel as we push the
limits of our bodies' compliance seems an unnecessary imposition. This is not
fun. Patterns are enjoyable, kicking and hitting the bags, sparring and the
floor exercises are fun. Stretching is the instructor's way of annoying us
before we can do REAL Tae Kwon Do.
An important reason for stretching is to prevent injury. Commonly endured are
the complaints of complacent muscles in their reluctance to do more than
the minimum. Less often we are alarmed by the red flag twinge that tells us
something significant is wrong. If this is the case we should stop. If we are
just looking for an excuse to stop, don't stop. Proper stretching and warm-ups
will avert more severe damage during class. Kicking, sparring, and the surprises
inherent in new techniques, all have the potential to pull muscles that are not
properly warmed up.
The simplistic, but nonetheless true axiom, "No pain, no gain" applies
here as in many other disciplines of life. While it is not the purpose of
stretching to cause torment, we can regard discomfort as a signpost.
REMEMBER: "No pain, no gain; too much pain, no brain!" Dr. McCain. As we
persevere in this necessary preparation we should insist upon measurable
progress. We should see our legs extend farther, bend our torsos closer,
do more sit-ups, more push-ups than we thought possible. We soon will
observe our previous best stretch, or best number of stomach crunches go by in
relative comfort. We may then set new goals, planting a new marker before our
agony becomes oppressive.
In our aspirations to excel in martial arts training, we must apply ourselves to
diligent stretching. Strength gained in our leg and abdominal muscles offers
better control in our kicks. Strength gained in our arm muscles is demonstrated
in powerful punches, blocks and board breaks. Coordination gained by working and
stretching all parts of our bodies renders an integrated performance.
Flexibility gained will effect higher kicks and yield more graceful and powerful
execution of patterns and drills.
How are the rules of stretching applied to our lives? It may be possible to go
through most of life in a state of relative ease. If this is our purpose we will
be unable to cope with life's inevitable catastrophes. Having been unwilling to
exert ourselves to excellence, we are not ready for an unexpected load of
pressure. If we prefer not to make the effort to learn essentials, our
experience adapting to new situations is limited. If we have not stretched our
compassion to give of ourselves when needed, we have not touched lives outside
our own.
For one who is prepared, a disaster may be viewed as a stepping stone for growth. Attention to Spiritual matters, diligence in practicing the tenets of Tae Kwon Do and giving the best effort in everything will supply the resources to deal with crises. The tedious repetition of strenuous body bends is basic to learning Tae Kwon Do. Is it worth it to you? The mastery of a difficult exercise commands a more powerful, graceful pattern and a deserved promotion in rank. So a life-stretching, distressful situation may be the necessary preparation to greater capacities for service and new and more noble commission.
