Select Physical Therapy, formally known as Physiotherapy Associates, is part of the Select Medical Outpatient Division, a nationally prominent, locally driven provider of outpatient physical rehabilitation. The centers offer a wide range of general physical therapy services such as hand therapy, sports medicine, work injury prevention and athletic training services to professional sports teams, colleges, universities and high schools. Dynamic stretching Purpose: Dynamic stretching prepares the muscles in the body for exercise. How it’s performed: Take the muscles to the end-range lengthened position within the respective movement needed to perform the subsequent exercise. (i.e. football kicker performing standing leg kicks; baseball pitcher performing arm circles). Benefits: Dynamic stretching uses motions that are specifically designed to be used in a sport/exercise and should be performed prior to activity. As a result, the body is prepared for the required movements needed to be successful in the respective exercise. Static Stretching Purpose: Static stretching increases muscle and joint range of motion. How it’s performed: Hold the muscle in the maximal lengthened position (pain-free) for 15-30 seconds at a time. Repeat 2-3 times. 
Benefits: Static stretching improves overall muscle length and joint range of motion. This results in increased performance of the muscles and joints being stretched for future sport/exercise. Static stretching should be performed after exercise to yield the greatest benefits. Written By: Physical Therapists team at Select Physical Therapy
