How can I improve my flexibility?

[JohnnyB]

http://www.youtube.com/user/howtostretch?feature=watch

I advise to watch this man demonstrate streches he is amazing.

He goes through all the detail of your body mechanics and it looks so simple even for the beginner.

I'll be trying Lotus position soon to strech my hip muscles and test the strain my dodgy knee can withstand.

[xo-karate]

I totally don't mind being wrong on this as well and I'm also really interested on opinions from more experienced members but from what I've seen and experienced, strength seems to be the key ingredient in better and higher kicks rather than just stretching ability ?

I second this. Strength is also a key for flexibility.

[Rodders]

Great tips everyone. Interesting to hear from someone a similar age having trouble with their hips! I thought I had dodgy hips or something! Ha

I stretch everyday and practise my kata as often as possible. I like the idea of doing yoko kicks slow to build up my strength and perfect my form. I will defo start doing that each day and see if that makes a difference to my efforts in class.

I noticed some good videos on you tube for stretches. I'm sure I will be doing the splits in no time!

Rodders

[xo-karate]

Tai Chi is good. I did not have enough patience for it.

My favorite is superfoot Bill

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YJF2rLaRAZM