Are you too old to start training your flexibility?

​Let's talk about age, flexibility training, and approach. I get a lot of people in their early 20s (and 30s and 40s) asking if it’s too late to start training contortion or flexibility, so let’s discuss!⁣
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Short answer: No, you’re not too old (🎉) BUT, there are a few things to think about as you start your flexibility journey. There are mainly two body types (ok ok, there are way more than two, but just go with it): those starting out with lots of natural flexibility and not much strength, and those who are fairly tight but decently strong. If you fall into the first category, it’s really important that you put a big focus on building strength in your range of motion. Doing crazy looking stuff right away (chest stand, super high oversplits, needle) can VERY easily lead to injury if you’re more flexible than strong. If you are more tight, you will still want to focus on building strength in your newly developing flexibility (this is what we call “active flexibility”!). You might be noticing a theme here now… but in case you missed it… focus on strength! But also note that it’s important to build strength IN your range of motion, so as your flexibility improves, so should your control over that flexibility.⁣
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No matter what your age or flexibility level is, it’s not entirely safe to push really hard into crazy positions, or put your leg up on a pile of mats and try to RELAX into oversplits Those are two things I would NEVER have students do. When I train students, we don’t start on tricks until I feel they have enough strength, flexibility, and body awareness to perform the skills on their own. ⁣
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So, long story short: No matter your age or skill level, it is NOT too late to start your flexibility training. Just make sure to put your body’s health and safety first and think long term, not just getting a super sweet Insta photo right away. ⁣
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If you need help knowing how to start your flexibility journey, check out this page that has a step-by-step guide on how to jump start your flexibility training (in the safest way possible, of course).