Congratulations to Al Kavadlo, releasing another book, this one focused on what is often (and especially in my case) the missing puzzle piece in strength work… stretching. Because I am a voracious and often insatiable reader (because I like physical books, my collection is daunting) I have read Stretching Your Boundaries in its entirety! Pending putting up an “official” review up on Dragon Door, I wanted to let you in on some of my opinions right here.
Due to some odd and awkward past experiences related to yoga and how it is promoted to women here in the states, I am going to confess to you that I’ve not always had the best attitude towards it. And while much of my own physical practice has included forms of mobility and movement very closely related to yoga, its often taken on terminology more related to athletic strength or martial arts. I think of myself as having just enough flexibility, but in constant need of improvement.
The struggle sometimes surrounds the fact that if I work on flexibility for flexibility’s sake I will notice a decrease in specific strengths (this isn’t necessarily true for everyone, just a personal observation). While many acts of flexibility look super cool and I have the utmost respect for the people who are able to achieve them, I haven’t personally been drawn to those type of goals. BUT… if I can see a specific purpose to increasing mobility/flexibility, and that purpose will give me a health/strength/skill advantage? Then yes I am all ears.
Al has so very skillfully bridged the gap here, and has presented probably the most practical manual for applying relevant flexibility and mobility with calisthenics. This book seems like the “missing puzzle piece” especially since Al relates the practices to concrete examples of calisthenics moves. I suspect this book will help many folks through skill training plateaus–I can’t wait to put more and more of this stuff into practice. As a bonus, I think the book really gives some great ideas on how to integrate flexibility and yoga-related moves into a program for clients and small groups too.
As you have come to expect, the photos and design of this book is inspiring in and of itself, as Al, Danny, and friends demonstrate exercises, stretches, and feats of strength and skill all over New York City. Sure makes me want to visit… AGAIN!
In short, Stretching Your Boundaries is a very accessible, practical and enjoyable volume. If you’re struggling (or just want to progress even further) with your calisthenics practice, absolutely check it out immediately. I should also note that you need to go check out the descriptive page about it because they’ve done that cool thing of spelling out neat stuff on particular pages of the book. The list of features is so long and so detailed that even though I’d already read the book, after seeing its page on Dragon Door I had to get it out immediately and look up the pages specifically referenced… it’s like a 2nd index or something! Go over there and you’ll see!
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