Aerobic tightening.

[Richard Kerr]

I have been given reason to believe that running long distance, cycling long distance, walking long distance and also power lifting tightens tendons and makes you less flexible unless you stretch yourself almost to death before and after.

I know long distance running certainly does tighten me up somewhat as I have experienced this. However cycling has tightened my legs but improved the flexibility in my hips somewhat.

I do weights but only for endurance improvement, can anyone tell me what doesn't tighten up muscles apart from stretching?

Is swimming safe?

[Broadsword2004]

Most activities will tighten your muscles up, however, don't just sit and stretch before such activities. Static stretching weakens the muscles, so only do dynamic stretches before working out. Do static stretching after working out. If you don't know what these are, go here: http://www.trickstutorials.com/index...nt/flexibility - READ! READ! READ!

One thing to also remember, is, you say you only use weights for endurance training. Well know this: weak muscles are always tight muscles. Strong muscles can be flexible muscles. Maybe if you train for some strength, and combine it with proper flexibility training, your muscles won't be so tight after workouts.

Remember, no one with weak legs can do proper splits, only people with strong legs can do splits. Strength and flexibility are inextricably linked, and you sound like you're lacking in strength.

[Broadsword2004]

Hey, you say you only do weights for endurance, do you mean for muscular endurance (like loads of pushups) or do you mean you do weights to improve your endurance sports (like running, cycling, etc...)? I said you sound weak b/c I interpreted it as meaning you do weights for muscular endurance.

Anyways, if you are strong already, work for flexibility. Hard aerobics will always tighten you up. I remember after cross-country races, I couldn't curl my hamstrings or they'd lock up on me. I had weak hammies then though, but still.

[Richard Kerr]

Hey, you say you only do weights for endurance, do you mean for muscular endurance (like loads of pushups) or do you mean you do weights to improve your endurance sports (like running, cycling, etc...)? I said you sound weak b/c I interpreted it as meaning you do weights for muscular endurance.

Anyways, if you are strong already, work for flexibility. Hard aerobics will always tighten you up. I remember after cross-country races, I couldn't curl my hamstrings or they'd lock up on me. I had weak hammies then though, but still.

Thank you for your insight. I used to do power pyramid training with weights and yes I was more flexible but I used to cycle and run more so hence had to stretch more. I am also going to follow what you say and go back to dynamic before and static after.

My endurance is aimed at fighting multiple opponents in freestyle fighting and street fighting. So yes I am already strong I just don't feel the need to power push on the weights, I stick to about 50kg max. I only weigh about 72kg though.