Nat started this discussion ·
So yesterday my instructor said that I have hyperextension in my right elbow (she noticed it in my inverted split grip). As far as I know I have always had it as I never really noticed it or it does not bother me. Is it something I should worry about? Would that mean that I am more prone to hurt myself? I am obsessing about it now.
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Hyperextension of joints usually means you're more flexible through your joints, which is not necessarily a bad thing, but it can sometimes lead to more risk for injury. Many people don't really notice or have any issues, but if you are seriously loading the arm, you may want to be more careful. The way to "fix" it is super easy- during a move where your arm is straight and there is weight going down into it, such as a split grip with your right arm on the bottom, just slightly bend the elbow! By bending it, you're no longer resting through the joints, and instead you'll use your muscles! I have hyperextension through the knees, just enough for them to get mad at me if I lock them (as in, fully extend the joint) too much. Since that's basically how I learned to stand, it's a long process of learning not to do it! But, I'm not doing too badly. If you never find it is a problem, I wouldn't worry too much :)
Nat ·
Thank you so much for the advice. I shall pay more attention to how I position it x
Hello there! Don't worry, joint hypermobility is super common. I also have hyper-extension throughout most of my large joints (hips, elbows, knees, shoulders), but it's not too extensive. It's nothing to be freaked out about, but it does mean you have to be a bit more cautious about your body placement and what your joints are doing. I've found I sometimes need more strength/time to do a move (ie. split grip). Just be patient with yourself and make sure you listen to your body. If you feel any "twinges" or discomfort in the joint just stop and rest for a while. Also, don't neglect strengthening the smaller muscles of the arms and shoulders! Veena has some great exercises on here! Thus far, my joints have only had an impact on my split grip training, and my flexibility training (oddly a negative impact on the flex training). It's funny Runemist mentioned extra flexibility because I am about 0% flexible despite the extra range of motion in my joints! In fact, because of the extra range of motion my muscles are extremely tight to try and help compensate for the joint instability. :D
Nat ·
Thank you!
