Josh Soto

Flexibility For Fitness

Flexibility for fitness taught me how to properly stretch and test my range of motion. We
also took two assessments, one during the beginning of the semester, then the second assessment
at the end. Our assessments covered our range of motion ranging from below average, average or
above average. Along with our results from the Tanita scale. Julie, wanted us to record our
hydration levels, but I personally kept track of other information, such as my weight and body fat
percentage. In the beginning my body fat was at 14% and my weight was 148lbs. At the end, I
gained 4lbs making my weight 152lbs and my body fat rose to 15%. The weight increase was not
surprising because I have been lifting weights and trying to build strength and size. However, the
bodyfat percentage rising is somewhat surprising, because I thought I would burn fat. However,
considering that the rise isnt significant makes sense, given that I have gained 4lbs.
One of my goals for the class from a Youtuber. He bent over to touch his toes and he
could bring his chest to his quadriceps and basically hug his thighs. It looked cool, and I have
some slight lower back pain every now and again. I was diligent with consistent stretching early
on, but that faded away because I was lacking sleep. There were also other factors going on,
however, not getting an adequate amount of sleep made it more difficult to do anything else in
my spare time. This ultimately led to me not achieving my goal.
How I felt at the beginning of the semester compared to now, about flexibility and
stretching has not changed drastically. I ran in track during high school as well as played soccer.
I already knew how beneficial it was to stretch all the time after activity and to stay hydrated. I
was one of the few players who never got muscular injuries and I believe it was because of the
amount of time I spent stretching. What flexibility for fitness did was enhance my views on
stretching. I used to see stretching as a way of cooling down and to prevent injuries. Although
true, I also learned that stretching can be used to improve balance, core strength, coordination,
and posture. After learning this, it has inspired and drove me to stretch more often as I used to in
high school.
What I primarily learned from this class for lifetime wellness was not the material of the
class itself, but the students and Julie. Not all students, but some were in school to be fitness
technicians and others just wanted to be healthy, also, Julie lived it. And lifetime wellness is just
that, you should live it. It must become a lifestyle. That in my opinion was the most valuable
thing I took away from the class. To fully commit to changing my life, not going on a strict
regime for a few months then back to how it was.
I will use the techniques I learned in this class to maintain excellent range of motions and
to properly cool down after physical activity. Prior to this class, I had very tight calves and
ankles, most likely from the amount of times Ive sprained them throughout my life. Now, I have
a good range of motion and I feel so much more comfortable, as well as confident when I am
being active. Whether its running or playing soccer, I can turn sharper without causing any
discomfort in my ankle. As for my calves, I can run further distances without having sore
muscles the next day.