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STRETCH If you plan to partake in an assisted stretching session at a local gym or boutique, Austin Martinez, MS, CSCS, ATC and Director of Education for StretchLab, an assisted stretching boutique, recommends the following:
Flexibility Isn’t Mandatory “Don’t worry if you aren’t flexible,” Martinez said. “All group stretches are led by a trained professional who will let you know how to customize each stretch based on your level of flexibility.” Wear Loose Clothing “Come in something comfortable that allows for freedom of movement and full range of motion,” Martinez said. “You don’t want to rip your favorite pair of skinny jeans!” Plan Your Stretch Before or After A Workout “Group stretches are great for performance recovery after a workout or sporting event, but they can also be an awesome warm-up for upcoming activity,” Martinez said. Wear Grip Socks “These socks ensure a stretch without slipping and falling,” Martinez said.
FAQS FOR THOSE NEW TO STRETCHING ANSWERED BY AUSTIN MARTINEZ FROM STRETCHLAB What are some of the benefits of assisted stretching?
“There are multiple benefits to stretching, including but not limited to: increased muscle flexibility, increased mobility, increased joint range of motion, injury prevention, aid with muscle recovery post-workout, aid with sports performance and decreased stress/tension,” Martinez said. “Assisted stretching, when done with a trained professional, can ensure individuals are fully receiving these benefits. They will ensure the stretch is held for the right amount of time, targeting the needed muscle groups and will apply the right amount of tension needed to get optimal results.” Walk me through what a typical stretch class looks like.
“For a one on one session at StretchLab, the client would walk in to be greeted by a Front Desk Associate and promptly checked in for their appointment,” Martinez said. “Soon after, their Flexologist will come to the front for introduction. Then the Flexologist take them to the back of the studio to complete a movement assessment test with our MAPS machine. The Flexologist will discuss the assessment results with the client and head to one of our stretch benches. As the session starts, the Flexologist will gather more pertinent questions from the client and begin to build rapport. From there, the Flexologist will take the client through various stretching techniques with the intent to create muscle relaxation and flexibility. Sessions are 25 minutes or 50 minutes.” What are the benefits of taking a group fitness class?
“In our group classes, clients learn various stretching and myofascial release techniques (foam rollers), taught by a trained Flexologist,” Martinez said. “The philosophy is ‘teach them how to fish,’ by giving the clients the education and tools to take their health/wellness into their own hands. This is led in a dynamic format for 50 minutes.” Febr uar y 2 0 2 0 | H ERS M ag az i ne 21
