I recently took a job with StretchZone® and went through an extensive 40-hour training course to teach me their methods, utilizing their patented strapping system and proprietary tables. So now that I’m a certified stretch practitioner, I thought it might be helpful to dive a little deeper into the health benefits of stretching.
When performed correctly and regularly stretching can offer a variety of health benefits. A quote by Joseph Pilates shared with us during the training really stuck with me is, “You’re only as young as your spine is flexible.” Simply put, if your spine is stiff and lacking mobility, your entire body and in-turn life will follow suit.
KEY ADVANTAGES TO STRETCHING
IMPROVED FLEXIBILITY: Stretching is one of those weird words we use. By that I mean that muscles technically speaking don’t actually stretch to a longer length. However, you can increase the tolerance and flexibility of a muscle by gradually extending further and further. This can be especially beneficial for athletes and individuals involved in physical activities that require a wide range of motion.
REDUCED MUSCLE TENSION: Stretching can help alleviate muscle tightness and reduce tension. This can be particularly helpful if you have tight muscles due to stress, inactivity, or poor posture.
ENHANCED POSTURE: Regular stretching can contribute to better posture by improving the flexibility of muscles that affect posture, such as those in the shoulders, chest, and lower back. This can help prevent or alleviate chronic postural problems.
INJURY PREVENTION: Stretching can reduce the risk of injuries, particularly strains and sprains. When muscles and tendons are more flexible, they are better able to absorb the impact of sudden movements or physical stress.
STRESS REDUCTION: Engaging in stretching exercises can have a relaxing effect on the body and mind. It can help relieve stress and promote a sense of calm and well-being.
IMPROVED CIRCULATION: Stretching increases blood flow to the muscles, which can help improve overall circulation. This can enhance nutrient delivery to muscles and promote the removal of waste from the body.
ENHANCED ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE: Athletes often incorporate stretching into their warm-up routines to prepare their muscles for physical activity. Stretching can improve muscle performance and coordination, potentially enhancing athletic performance.
PAIN RELIEF: Stretching may provide relief from certain types of chronic pain conditions, like lower back pain, by relieving muscle tension and improving posture.
BETTER BALANCE & COORDINATION: Stretching can improve proprioception/kinesthesia, the body's ability to sense its position in space. This can lead to better balance and coordination, reducing the risk of falls, particularly in older adults.
MENTAL BENEFITS: Stretching is not just physically beneficial; it can also have mental benefits. Taking a few minutes to stretch can be a mindful practice, promoting relaxation and mental clarity.
It's essential to note that stretching should be done correctly to avoid injury. It's generally advisable to warm up your muscles before stretching, hold stretches for 15-30 seconds, and avoid bouncing or forcing your body into uncomfortable positions. Additionally, individual flexibility levels vary, so it's important to tailor your stretching routine to your specific needs and goals. If you have any underlying medical conditions or injuries, consult with a healthcare professional or physical therapist before starting a stretching regimen.
You might be wondering what in the world a stretch practitioner does. Basically, practitioner assisted stretching is more passive – it allows you to be safe, efficient and effortless. The certified practitioner develops a personalized stretch routine based on your goals and current health conditions. The practitioner helps you manipulate your body, by stabilizing and isolating muscles all while actively communicating, so you’re always comfortable.
Since I’m certified by
StretchZone® I’m going to shameless give them a huge plug. There are locations all over the United States and you can book a free consultation that will give you 30-minute stretch and answer all your questions. If you’re in Colorado, come to the Southglenn location in Centennial – I’d love to give you a stretch!
xoDanette