Stretching for Health: Your Handbook for Ultimate Wellness, Longevity, and Productivity

This slender book is about much more than stretching but even disregarding its chapters about wellness, nutrition, etc. I'd wholeheartedly recommend it for its simple, clear description of Active Isolated Stretching (AIS) and its excellent set of stretches. If you're looking for an in depth discussion of AIS, then you might want a book by AIS founder, Aaron Mattes. But if you're trying to put together an easy to follow stretching routine, then Stretching for Health can't be beat. I own at least a dozen books about stretching and SfH is my favorite. Whether I'm doing a quick 5 to 10 minute warmup or a full body 30 minute stretching session, this is the book I turn to.

I find Stretching For Health to be exceptionally well-written. Many confusing and conflicting health concepts are explained in a way such that motivates me to try something different. It offers good reminders throughout to take small steps and encourages me to realize that even a failed goal can be a success. Thus, it has helped my attitude about overall fitness. I like that stretching seems to be a metaphor throughout, ie. stretch yourself to new ideas of lefestyle. The stretches have helped me considerably. I've had low back pain for over ten years and have tried many things and therapies. Everything I tried seemed to help only a short while. I began the 7 minute low back routine and noticed consistently less pain and greater ease of movement at work. I have since incorporated more areas of my body in a daily stretching routine and I've been feeling much better overall. The stretches are nicely illustrated and the movements are clearly described. I've recommended this book to many friends who have been plagued with daily aches and pains. I'm pleased to have found this book.