Assisted stretching can help maximize your exercise sessions, allowing you to target various muscle groups better and get a more efficient workout. Assisted stretching uses a partner or trainer to help you stretch the muscles that may be difficult to reach by yourself. Here are seven benefits of assisted stretching:
1. Improved Range of Motion
Stretching involves lengthening the muscles and tendons, which may help with better mobility. When someone else assists you in doing the stretch, they can push you further than if you were doing it alone. They can help you target even the most difficult-to-reach muscle groups, helping these areas become more flexible. Your body may reach further or experience less strain or tension during activities. Whether you’re lifting weights, running, playing your favorite sport, or just doing everyday tasks, assisted stretches can help you move more freely and comfortably.
2. Reduced Risk of Injury
When your muscles are stiff and tight, you’re more susceptible to pulls and tears. These can range from minor injuries, such as a strained muscle, to major ones, like a torn ligament. Assisted stretching can help you relieve this tension, making your muscles more supple and resilient. That helps them meet the demands of rigorous activities without getting injured. A trained professional can help you focus on the muscles most vulnerable to injury and stretch them accordingly. These may include your calves, hips, hamstrings, and shoulders. Professional stretching routines may also help you recover from an injury faster.
3. Decreased Aches and Pains
Tight muscles can lead to discomfort, pain, and stiffness. Assisted stretches can help release the tension in the affected areas and reduce pain symptoms. If you suffer from lower back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, or even common headaches, this stretching type may offer relief. When you stretch, blood flow increases to the muscles. That means you get more oxygen and nutrients to the tight areas so they can relax and repair. Your trained partner can help you focus on the areas where you experience pain. The right stretching techniques may help reduce your dependency on pain medications.
4. Improved Posture and Balance
If you have an imbalanced body, your posture may be affected, leading to issues like rounding your back. These issues can increase your risk of neck and back pain. Assisted stretching can help you improve your posture by lengthening the muscles that hold up your spine and help you stand up straighter. Stretching sessions may help improve your posture, allowing you to stand taller with better balance.
5. Enhanced Mental Clarity
Stretching can help you become more mindful and connected with your body. That may improve mental clarity, allowing you to focus on tasks more efficiently. Assisted stretches can further increase the connection between mind and body, helping you become more aware of your posture, movements, and body positioning. It can help you become more in tune with your surroundings and improve concentration. These skills can help you in various aspects of your life, from sports to work activities.
6. Reduced Stress and Anxiety
When your body is tense, it can lead to increased levels of stress and anxiety. You may feel more on edge and find it difficult to relax. Assisted stretching can help you loosen up, relieving some of that tension. When your body is relaxed and flexible, you may manage stress levels easier. Shallow and rapid breathing is also common when you’re stressed. Professional stretching can help you slow your breathing and practice deep and conscious breaths for better relaxation.
7. Improved Overall Performance
A professional stretching routine can help you move more efficiently and maximize your performance. When your muscles are flexible, they can bear more weight and pressure without getting injured or overworked. That allows you to increase your intensity and output during workouts and potentially reach your goals faster. If you participate in sports, you may move quicker and react better to opponents’ moves. The right stretching techniques may allow you to enhance your overall athletic performance.
Embrace Assisted Stretching
Stretching on your own can help you create a more flexible body, but doing it with an experienced partner can bring even greater benefits. A trained partner can help you identify and target the areas requiring more attention and stretch them better. They can also help you stretch with proper form and technique, reducing your risk of injury. Find a reputable stretch studio near you to get started on your flexibility journey.
