Everyone loves lectures, right? I slept through many lectures back in the day, so why would I watch one now? Below is a 45 minute video about stretching that is actually fascinating! This lecture was a finalist for TVO’s best lecturer competition in 2009.

Professor Doug Richards from the University of Toronto covers the biomechanics of our muscles, joints and connective tissues, and covers these points:

• How much flexibility can be gained from stretching.
• Why sitting is so bad for your posture. Should you be stretching your lower back after you’ve been slouching in a chair all day? (Here’s a hint: no!)
• The effect of stretching on discomfort during exercise (starting at 31:15). Is it a good thing?
• Why cyclists and runners don’t want the same flexibility.
• Do you know why you’re touching your toes when you stretch your hamstrings? (37:00)
• Is stretching a health issue or a performance issue?
• Why do you have to walk so far to get your luggage in airports? (22:00)

I highly recommend paying attention to this one, even if you can’t help napping through your other lectures.