Softball & Flexibility

I hate to stretch.

We all know flexibility is critical, not just for softball-
but daily LIFE.

However, for some reason, I find flexibility is the most
neglected fitness area. For some reason 5 year olds, 15 year olds
and 50 year olds don't like to take the time to stretch out the
muscles after a good workout.

So, I'm really working to incorporate flexibility into
my practices.

I figure I'll try and give them a good habit early on
(maybe they will thank me when they're my age)...

I've been having a "stretching lesson" at the end of
each practice.

So, before we home, we take 10 minutes or so
and stretch. Each player is assigned one muscle to think
of a stretch for.

We go around in a circle until each player has led the group
in "their stretch".

By getting the team involved in coming up with the stretches
they are more interested in participating.

The confidence in leading a group is a bonus.

And for me- I just stretch along with them
and let the players coach each other.

This "Stretch Lesson" and other cool ideas are in the practice
plans:

http://www.softball-practice-plans.com

Let me know if this works for you,

Becky