(Health-NewsWire.Net, May 09, 2015 ) San Francisco, CA -- In Barry Lavis' new video, he explains the techniques, resistance band positioning, and benefits of stretching for optimal front rack positioning and weight distribution. Stretching helps athletes attain the high elbows needed when working with barbells and it's beneficial when performing front squats, cleans and thrusters.
Lavis noted that one of the primary causes of injury is failing to make time for stretching. Even athletes who understand its importance tend to eliminate it from their schedules. Stretching before workouts loosens the muscles for better performance and the stretches are equally important following workouts to help the muscles acclimate and attain their pre-workout condition.
Front rack stretches are a distraction exercise for the triceps and athletes shouldn't attempt to pull while performing the motions. The goal is gentle stretching to loosen and limber. The bands should do the work and Lavis has endorsed the WOD Nation resistance bands for optimal ability to attain perfect elbow positioning.
The WOD Nation bands offer color coding to facilitate obtaining the correct amount of resistance. Athletes should only work with the resistance level they need to avoid injury. The bands begin at 10-35 lbs., go to 60-175 lbs. of resistance, and different bands can be used in tandem for a perfectly tailored stretching solution. Front rack stretches can be performed in just 30 to 60 seconds per side.
The stretches featured by Lavis in the video are the result of his extensive experience in the fitness industry and as a CrossFit coach. The stretches open the shoulders, enabling a larger range of movement and flexibility. They're also effective for athletes performing presses, overhead pulls and push-presses.
Pre-workout stretching facilitates the high elbows required for front rack positioning. Other benefits include improved circulation and oxygen flowing throughout the body and reducing wrist pain that some athletes experience. Stretching is equally effective for calming the body and mind following intensive activity for optimal recovery.
WOD Nation is a United States based company that provides workout gear to elite athletes. All of the company's fitness products are rigorously tested by athletes around the world to ensure they meet the demands of intense exercise programs. WOD Nation's website can be found at http://wodnationgear.com.
