Kristian Berg

Kristian Berg's book contains a roughly 2-page spread for each muscle discussed, and it includes all the major muscles from around the body. It stands out for its clear color diagrams illustrating the muscles to be stretched and its notes on common mistakes.

Consult this book if you've been told to stretch a muscle or muscle group. If you're trying to treat pain on your own, you may want to start with The Trigger Point Therapy Workbook instead; it makes a strong argument that even the targeted stretching that Berg's book enables is not enough on its own and that stretching is most fruitful once the acute pain stage is over (which my experience upholds).… (mais)

The first section of the book gives an overview of why stretching is important, anatomy, posture, etc., which I found very useful. The middle section describes how to stretch specific muscles. The descriptions are good, and there are illustrations to help. The final section explains common issues (waking up with neck pain, for example) and then refers you back to certain pages in the middle section.

Overall it was a little more in depth than I personally needed, but it was well written and gave good instructoins.… (mais)

Very thorough detailed treatise on stretching. Book was laid out in three sections: anatomy/physiology, specific stretches, and programs for various conditions. Seems to be targeted towards semi-professional athlete and/or someone who has worked with a lot with a physical therapist before. Anyone with a strong sports and conditioning background should be able to glean they need to proceed to the correct exercises. My only concern is the exercises may be a little too technical for the casual person (e.g. opening with six different stretches for the neck might be overwhelming). Overall a useful tool for those seeking to improve their health, reduce pain and increase performance.… (mais)