See the issue: October 2007

Baseball requires so many multi-directional movements that groin and hamstring injuries are common among its players. However, the practice of stretching can help significantly, according to Eric Hammer, strength and conditioning coach for the University of Louisville, 2007 College World Series participants. Below is Hammer’s advice on the Cardinals’ flexibility plan.

Do

• Dynamic warm-ups before practices, games and workouts
• Keep your back flat and maintain good posture when performing dynamic stretches
• Static stretches, sit in cold and hot tubs, foam roll and get massaged after practices, games and workouts

Don't

• Perform dynamic stretches over more than 15 yards
• Do static stretches before working out or playing
• Talk with teammates during stretches. Stay focused to get quality stretches
• Overextend your muscles and joints when stretching

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