Hip flexibility and the splits?

[1Weedhopper]

I have been training in Shito-ryu for about 6 months. I have a leg stretcher that helps with the splits but my left leg and hip is so stiff. Years ago I think I jammed my hip or leg in such a way that make it painful when i stretch. I really want to get more flexible. Has anyone had a problem similar to this and what can i do to remedy it.

[DWx]

Welcome to KF 1Weedhopper

Not to be a downer on the situation, but some people are just limited by their own body as to how flexible they can be and how well they can stretch. I've been training since I was a kid and have never had good flexibility no matter how much or how well I stretch, just have to learn to work with what you've got.

Having said that, I find this is a good resource for stretching and flexibility (just substitute all the bits about tricking for martial arts): http://www.trickstutorials.com/index.php?page=content/flexibility

Important thing is not to force the stretch and make things worse, so I'd use the leg stretcher but don't try and force the splits or you may end up doing more damage. And always make sure to warm up properly before any stretching.

[Evil Dave]

DWx put it nicely, everybody is limited by genetics and history. That doesn't mean you have to 'suck it up', you can improve your flexibility. It takes time, more time and yet more time. A hip stretcher is nice, but it only works through one range of motion. You need to not only change up range of motion you are working, but also work on other muscles/joints to increase your flexibility.

[bushido_man96]

My mom was really limited on her flexibility, as well. But she had a good belt level side kick, and was really quick to get inside and use her hands.

Its nice to be flexible, and if you keep working at it, you'll get there. Just be smart when you train, and listen to your body.

There are also a few stretching routines out there that you might look into like Elastic Steel or Stretching Scientifically. Maybe those will be of help, too.

[Harkon72]

Flexibility is not the be-all and end-all of martial arts. Use the tools you are given. We can't all hold our knee against our ear like a Shaolin, some Grapplers have a different tendon flexibility to say high kicking Korean Stylists, Kravists and Judoka have a different fitness to Krateka and Muay Thai fighters. Within each and all styles we are all individuals; reaching a full box split is a legitimate goal, but not what Budo for me at least is about.

[1Weedhopper]

Thanks guys for all your advice.