5 Facts Why Fascia Fitness Matters

1. Start from any point in the body whatsoever and draw a line to any other, fascia is present all the way. Its the single system of tough connective tissue holding us together – think of a 3-dimensional “body stocking” enveloping every body structure from the minutest nerve to the biggest bone - or the membrane of a citrus fruit which surrounds the fruit and every segment and fibre.

1. About 50% muscle attachment is to fascia, therefore overtight or untoned fascia affects muscle efficiency and performance. Fascia is a force distributor in the body. Lack of tone in the fascia means muscles have to work harder.

1. Fascia is made up of 2 fibres - elastic elastin and strengthening collagen. Less movement leads to collagen breakdown. Fascia needs movement to keep healthy, but don't over-exercise - rest is important too to allow collagen to come back (like a foot in wet sand, when you take it away, water returns).

1. Previously movement was defined as muscle-tendon-bone. Now we know the importance of fascia and its functional lines in movement. Yoga is brilliant for developing powerful functional fascia trains within the body. Also pre-tensioning via counter-movement and positioning helps muscle effort. (David Beckham – watch what he does with his upper body and left arm on kicking the ball.)

1. Fascia is thixotrophic! This means it becomes more yielding and flexible with increased temperature and movement, ie massage and exercise!

Hope you've been fascia-nated ;)

Red Kite Masseuse – Deep Tissue : Aromatherapy, CAMExpo 26 September 2015