Stretching is a common way to keep the body flexible and reduce muscle tightness. Assisted stretch therapy is one type of stretching, but it works differently from stretching done alone. It involves another person guiding the stretches while you stay relaxed.
This approach brings unique features that set it apart from regular stretching, including:
Stretching with guidance:
In assisted stretch therapy, a trained person moves your body through different stretches. This means your muscles are stretched while you remain still. In regular stretching, you usually move and control the stretch by yourself. Having someone else guide the movements can allow for deeper and smoother stretches.
Body stay relaxed:
One clear difference is that your muscles stay relaxed during assisted stretches. You don’t have to use your own strength to stretch the muscles. When stretching alone, muscles often tense up because you control the movement. Staying relaxed helps the muscles lengthen more easily during assisted stretching.
Focus on slow and steady movements:
Assisted stretch therapy usually involves slow, steady, and gentle movements. The person guiding the stretch moves at a calm pace and holds the stretch briefly. This can differ from some regular stretches where quick movements or bouncing might occur. The slow pace helps avoid sudden muscle strain.
Personal attention to each stretch:
A practitioner in assisted stretch therapy pays close attention to how your body reacts. They adjust the stretch based on your comfort and flexibility. This personal touch is less common in regular stretching done alone, where it is harder to notice subtle signs from your body.
Access to hard-to-reach areas:
Assisted stretching often reaches muscles or joints that are difficult to stretch by yourself. For example, stretches involving the back, hips, or shoulders might feel easier with guidance. This is because the other person can support and move your limbs safely.
Combination with breathing focus:
Many assisted stretch sessions include a focus on breathing. The slow movements are paired with steady, calm breaths. This combination promotes relaxation in both body and mind. Regular stretching done alone may not always include this breathing focus.
Safe and supported stretching:
Since the practitioner controls the movements, stretches are usually done within safe limits. This reduces the chance of overstretching or injury. When stretching alone, it is easier to push too far or use improper form.
