Assisted Stretching

Assisted Stretching is currently the fastest and most effective way known to increase muscle flexibility. It actually combines passive stretching and isometric stretching to achieve maximum static flexibility. During passive stretching, the client assumes a position which is then held by the therapist. During isometric stretching, the patient is motionless while stretching with tensing of the stretched muscles against resistance.

Assisted stretching consists of three simple steps: stretch the muscle, contract it isometrically against resistance, and then stretch it again. This is a simple concept, yet highly effective. These steps apply whether you're isolating one muscle at a time or stretching groups of muscles simultaneously.

Who benefits from Assisted Stretching?

Many would assume that only those who were trying to improve their sports performance through an increased range of motion would benefit from assisted stretching. There are many others however, who gain an improved quality of life through better mobility and function through increased flexibility. We lose flexibility as we age. Factors such as stress, poor nutrition, and activity levels can contribute to our continual loss of flexibility. Athletes as well as people recovering from a soft tissue injury, or those who have lost function over a period of time, can gain strength after improving their flexibility through assisted stretching.