The Whartons' Stretch Book, by Jim and Phil Wharton

This book features the breakthrough method of Active-Isolated Stretching, the revolutionary yet remarkably simple flexibility program. Michael Young highly recommends this book for the therapist and client alike. It is easily understood and contains some fantastic information. If you follow this program, injuries can be prevented. "Whether you're a serious competitor or weekend warrior, you know that proper stretching before and after your workout can improve your performance, increase your flexibility, help prevent injury, and make you feel better. But did you know that the traditional way of stretching---lock your knees, bounce, hold, hurt, hold longer---actually makes muscles tighter and more prone to injury? There's a new and better way to stretch: Active-Isolated Stretching. This groundbreaking technique is your new exercise prescription. The routine is simple: First you prepare to stretch one isolated muscle at a time. Then you actively contract the muscle opposite the isolated muscle, which will then relax in preparation for its stretch. You stretch it gently and quickly---for no more than two seconds---releasing it before it goes into its protective contraction. Then you repeat. Simple, but the results are outstanding. The Whartons' Stretch Book explains it all. Give Active-Isolated Stretching a try for three weeks. You'll never go back to your old stretching routines again."