Now more than ever, people are recognizing stretching as a non-negotiable part of their health and wellness routine. Stretching is an accessible modality that can provide immediate relief from tension and long-term benefits no matter your age or lifestyle. As stretching grows in popularity, attention has increased around assisted stretching. And it raises the question - why would someone work with a stretch expert?

What is Assisted Stretching

Stretching is the act of extending or lengthening a muscle or group of muscles to improve flexibility and range of motion. This can be done in a variety of ways, including static stretching, dynamic stretching, proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching, and assisted stretching.

Assisted stretching is a form of stretching where the person conducting the stretch, which should be a reputable organization-certified or trained professional, moves the person’s limbs through the stretches. This allows for a more targeted stretch, potentially accessing muscles and areas that may be difficult to reach when stretching alone. 

Unlike solo stretching, assisted stretching is primarily passive for the person getting stretching. This passive methodology permits the person getting stretched the ability to apply additional attention to their breathing, resulting in a better and more relaxing stretching experience. 

The Benefits of Working with a Stretch Expert - and The Risks When You Don’t

Choosing to work with a stretch expert is more than just getting a better stretch. It’s an opportunity to work with a trusted professional that understands how to help you move and feel better.

An assisted stretch with an expert gives you:

• Access to knowledge on the latest science and technology around assisted stretching
• Opportunity for programming designed around your body’s needs and goals
• Proper incorporation of advanced techniques
• Minimal risk of injury when trying to achieve deeper stretches
• Guidance on mobility exercises you can continue to do at home to maintain and improve progress

Is there really a difference between stretching with an expert versus stretching with a friend? Most definitely! This is especially true for those with more concerns around their mobility, are managing chronic pain or disabilities, or are in stages of life that require more caution around their body. 

Stretching with a friend can feel like you’re getting a deeper stretch, but most won’t have the knowledge around proper techniques to help you achieve a deep, targeted stretch without hurting you. This is particularly concerning for those with a higher risk of injury. Working with a stretch expert can minimize that risk, helping the individual feel more relaxed which is essential for a proper stretch!

Trust StretchLab’s Experts

No two bodies are the same, and neither are stretch experts. Each expert comes with their own experience and knowledge around the body and mobility exercises. When it comes to the experts at StretchLab, not only do our experts come with a wealth of knowledge, you can also trust that they have all completed a nationally accredited program. StretchLab’s Flexologist Training Program is an intensive and thorough series that each of our experts must complete prior to servicing guests at our studios.

During their required lessons and hands-on training, our experts broaden their education and understanding of the muscular system, conduct hands-on learning regarding proper assisted stretching technique, and prepare to work with a variety of clients of all ages, body types, and physical needs.

Not only do they learn how to properly work with the body, but also how to design custom programming for every client. By using StretchLab’s proprietary technology, our experts are able to conduct thorough mobility assessments to identify imbalances and areas of interest within the body to best tailor the stretch program to their needs.

Want to work with one of our stretch experts? Click below to learn more and secure up to 50% off your first StretchLab session plus a free mobility assessment!