When it comes to priorities at workout time, if anything gets the shaft when considering the amount of time to dedicate to cardio, strength training and stretching, it’s often stretching that doesn’t get the attention it deserves given the amount of benefits one can reap from incorporating DIY or assisted stretching sessions into daily workouts.
People can benefit from assisted stretching with a practitioner at Stretch Zone in many ways beyond what they can gain from doing their own routine at the gym or at home.
“Stretching here at Stretch Zone, you always get to relax and focus solely on stretching for 30 to 60 minutes,” said Hassan Mackey, the general manager of Stretch Zone in Exton, Chester County, adding, ”It removes the strain of stretching on your own.”
He explained it can be tough for some people to get into certain positions to stretch certain muscle groups.
“Our patented straps and belt system act as a second and third pair of hands for us to keep you safe and isolate the appropriate muscle groups for the particular stretch we’re performing,” he said.
“The removal of straining and reaching when trying to get a deep stretch allows you to focus on breathing to help increase the range of motion that an individual might not be able to get on their own.”
Customize stretch sessions
They customize stretch sessions for clients based on their individual needs, taking into consideration any health conditions, physical restrictions and personal goals.
“When it comes to evaluation and movement selection, we always stress lifestyle and health history so we can get as complete a picture as possible,” said Austin Crouch, assistant general manager. ”That includes exercise, diet, hydration, sleep, injuries, surgeries, etc.”
In terms of customization, they have dozens of unique stretches their practitioners implement, along with modifications for those who need them.
There are a range of reasons as to why people head to Stretch Zone.
“We truly see a bit of everything,” Crouch said. “Many folks are coming in to help recover mobility after routine surgery, such as knee replacements. Some are acting preventatively for athletic or lifestyle purposes.”
Ages 18 to 80
While most of their clients are in the active aging category, they represent a full range of ages from 18 to 80. Standard sessions are 30 minutes long, with options for one hour.
“Most clients get results from one to four sessions per week,” Crouch said. “It depends on their unique situation, which we assess during our free consultation.”
After a stretch session, individuals can feel a range of positive results.
“Right after the session, clients report feelings of relaxation, increased mobility and comfort as well as more fun adjectives, such as feeling ’lighter’ or ‘bouncier’,” Crouch said.
Isolate and control stretch intensity
The benefits one can reap from a professional stretch come down to Stretch Zones practitioners’ ability to isolate and control stretch intensity.
“As professionals, we are also able to actively troubleshoot during sessions in order to adjust for whatever daily life has thrown at you, so that no matter what, we can keep you feeling, playing and living your best.”
Local residents of Stretch Zone locations can receive a free 30-minute stretch session.
For more information, visit www.stretchzone.com/locations/exton-pa
