Benefits of Assisted Stretching
More and more people are turning to assisted stretching to improve flexibility, aid muscle recovery, and relieve pain—and for good reason. No matter your job, age, activity level, or workout of choice, the technique is efficient, effective, and supremely beneficial for your physical well-being, not to mention super relaxing.
But what is assisted stretching, exactly, and what are the benefits of assisted stretching? We’ll answer these questions below, going over the perks of this stretching method, who should consider it, what to expect, and whether it’s worth it.
What is assisted stretching?
Assisted stretching is when a trained professional takes you through a personalized stretching routine tailored to your body, unique needs, and current paint points.
What is the main purpose of assisted stretching? The goal is to gently and gradually build your flexibility, mobility, and range of motion by stretching your muscles and limbs in ways you haven’t been able to (or didn’t know how to) do yourself.
Assisted stretching types and techniques
Assisted stretching can be just that—a stretch session guided and performed by an expert. Or it can incorporate massage techniques in a Stretch*ssage to alleviate tension in tight areas, reduce or prevent soreness, and help you relax.
With a regular session, you’ll get a full-body stretch that releases tightness, elongates your muscles, and extends your range of motion. With a massage-stretch (Stretch*ssage) combo, your muscles will be stretched and massaged using deep-tissue, Swedish, and Thai modalities to help you loosen up and de-stress, which, in turn, helps maximize the stretching.
Assisted stretching vs. self-stretching
A professional stretching session can be highly beneficial. But while it can take you beyond the limits of self-stretching, you’re still wise to stretch at home for a few minutes as often as every day.
Key benefits of assisted stretching
There are numerous assisted stretching benefits. Having an expert stretch your body with a customized routine can help with:
Flexibility and mobility: Stretching, in general, is arguably the best way to become more flexible. Assisted stretching can take you further than you’re able to go on your own without hurting yourself. It can also boost mobility and range of motion, which tend to decrease with age.
Muscle recovery and injury prevention: A professional stretching session can help prevent injuries during a workout and day-to-day movements while aiding muscle recovery after a strain or physical activity. It might also reduce soreness following intense exercise or overexertion.
Posture, alignment, and balance: Regular stretching has been shown to support better posture, spinal alignment, and balance. This can not only help you sit and stand straighter without hunching or slouching but also avoid injury and strain from improper form during exercise.
Pain relief: By improving posture, alignment, flexibility, balance, and mobility, assisted stretching can help relieve pain from anything from a full-time desk job to a high-intensity cycling class to playing with your grandchildren.
Relaxation: Expert-led stretch sessions are incredibly relaxing. As you feel tension release from your muscles and circulation improves throughout your body, you can take a deep breath, chill out, and unwind, knowing a highly trained professional is there to guide the way.
Improved Performance: In addition to these benefits, assisted stretching can enhance your overall performance. By preparing your muscles more effectively and improving your range of motion, you may experience better coordination, increased strength, and a more efficient workout. This means not only a boost in your athletic performance but also improved daily functional movement.
Is assisted stretching worth it?
For many people, assisted stretching is absolutely worth doing on a regular basis. After all, the physical demands of daily life call for balance and flexibility.
Whether you’re an office worker, an athlete, a yogi, someone who aims to hit 10,000 steps a day, an active parent with young children, training for a marathon, dealing with chronic stiffness, or looking to improve or maintain mobility as you age, you can reap the benefits of assisted stretching.
Cost vs. benefits of assisted stretching
Assisted stretching sessions at Stretch*d studios range from $69 for a 25-minute introductory session to $209 for an ultimate full-body session. You can save by signing up for a membership or purchasing sessions in packs. Stretch*d also accepts some FSA (flexible spending account) and HSA (health savings account) reimbursements for stretching services.
When you’re able to get through your day without stiffness, move without strain, and do the things you love (or want to be able) to do, you might find that the assisted stretching benefits are undoubtedly worth the investment.
How to get started with assisted stretching
Before booking, we recommend getting in touch with your healthcare provider to make sure it’s safe based on your current needs and condition. Once you have the A-OK from your provider, you can get started with an introductory session.
Search for a reputable studio in your area—Stretch*d currently has two locations in New York City (on the Upper East Side and in the Flatiron District).
You may want to start with one session a week to see how your body responds. After that, you can go more often.
For best results, we suggest wearing comfortable clothing (stretchy or loose-fitting—not jeans) to your assisted stretching appointment. This will allow you to move easily as your body is stretched out.
FAQs about assisted stretching
Find answers to frequently asked questions about assisted stretching below.
Does assisted stretching hurt?
Nope. Assisted stretching sessions at Stretch*d won’t hurt. They’re meant to feel good and always tailored to your current flexibility level. You won’t be pushed too far, and your Stretch*r will check in with you throughout your appointment to make sure you’re comfortable and relaxed.
How long are assisted stretching sessions?
Assisted stretching sessions at Stretch*d are 25, 50, or 75 minutes long. A shorter appointment will get you in and out while still effectively targeting tight spots and delivering a quick boost of mobility and rejuvenation. Longer sessions are best for alleviating deeper muscle tension, providing longer-lasting relief, and working toward elevated flexibility.
Research has shown that longer stretching sessions lead to more flexibility and a better range of motion. When you stretch at home, you might only do a few minutes a day. But with assisted stretching, you can bet you’re giving your muscles the attention they need.
How often should you do assisted stretching?
Beginners can start with assisted stretching once a week. Once you’re more accustomed to the technique, you can move up to a couple of weekly sessions. Athletes looking to improve their performance might do as many as four per week.
The professional stretch therapists at Stretch*d will work with you to figure out where to start and how often to book appointments based on your needs and goals.
Who shouldn’t do assisted stretching?
If you have a current or past injury, ask your healthcare provider before booking an assisted stretching session. The method can help with recovery, but you’ll want to make sure it’s safe first.
Final thoughts: Should you try assisted stretching?
Whether you’re a professional dancer, a frequent business traveler with a demanding schedule, a fitness enthusiast, looking to supplement personal training, managing chronic pain, or a retiree who wants to stay active and make the most of every day, assisted stretching is definitely worth trying.
Benefits include:
- – Improved flexibility, mobility, and range of motion
- – Better alignment, balance, and posture
- – Relief from pain, stiffness, and tension
- – Preventing injury and muscle strain
- – Relaxation and stress relief
Think of assisted stretching as the ultimate form of self-care. If you’re ready to stretch your limits, get stronger, and feel no longer held back, give it a try.
In the New York City area? Book an introductory session at a Stretch*d location near you.
Sources:
Stathokostas L, et al. (2013). Flexibility of older adults aged 55-86 years and the influence of physical activity. Journal of aging research. doi.org/10.1155/2013/743843
Behm DG, et al. (2023). Potential effects of dynamic stretching on injury incidence of athletes: a narrative review of risk factors. Sports medicine (Auckland, N.Z.). doi.org/10.1007/s40279-023-01847-8
Kim D, et al. (2015). Effect of an exercise program for posture correction on musculoskeletal pain. Journal of physical therapy science. doi.org/10.1589/jpts.27.1791
Warneke K, et al. (2023). Improvements in flexibility depend on stretching duration. International journal of exercise science. doi.org/10.70252/LBOU2008
