5 Things to Expect at Your First Assisted Stretch Session

Because a lot of people have a sedentary lifestyle, it greatly affects their mobility and flexibility. When you have tight muscles, you're more likely to feel instability and discomfort when moving. This is especially true for athletes, runners and physically active people. When your muscles are tight, you're also more susceptible to joint injuries when performing repetitive movements. So it's important to identify and eliminate flexibility restrictions if you want to avoid soreness, improve performance and reduce your risk of injury.

It's also important to mention that stretching is not just for adults. Children, teens and adults all need to be able to move freely through their joints without restrictions to avoid unnecessary pain and injury. 

This is why it's essential to go to a professional for stretching checks and assessments before you begin working on your own flexibility. A professional can identify your specific trouble areas so you can work on them with confidence. You'll also be able to save time and energy by getting to the root of the problem early on.

So what are the things you can expect in your first assisted stretch session?

1. You Will Receive Personalised Stretching Advice Based on Your Individual Needs 

No two people have the exact same body or injury. That's why it's extremely important for your flexibility and mobility coach to know your full medical history, including any past injuries, so he can recommend the proper stretches for your specific situation. 

2. You'll Be Checked for Flexibility Restrictions

In your first session, your flexibility coach will thoroughly assess your mobility. He'll look at many different areas, including your flexibility, posture, strength and coordination. This is why most combat athletes, martial artists and wrestlers find out they have tight hip flexors or poor shoulder mobility. A strength and conditioning coach might find poor upper back or hamstring flexibility. 

3. You'll Be Provided With Stretching Prescriptions That Are Right for You

A flexibility coach will recommend specific stretching exercises for your body. These exercises will help you restore your natural range of motion and make it easier to perform daily activities.  Whether you have an injury that's preventing you from moving freely, or you just want to improve your full body flexibility and range of motion, your coach will give you the exercises you need so you can get back to full health.

4. You'll Learn More about the Importance of Proper Breathing 

Breathing properly makes a huge difference in your flexibility and range of motion. It helps you get in and out of positions more efficiently, maximise your gains and minimise your risk of injury. You'll also learn how to breathe in certain areas of your body to make it easier to move through certain joints. This will give you the confidence to stretch safely and more effectively on your own.

5. You'll Be Able to Identify Your Specific Flexibility Restrictions

You can't work on your flexibility until you know what areas are causing you trouble. Even if you have a good idea of where you might have restrictions, it's important to get a professional's opinion. If you assume you know what your problems are, you could miss an important area that would have helped you get your flexibility back. 

Conclusion

When it comes to personal training, your coach is your accountability partner. They will help you achieve your goals and get your body moving more freely and pain-free. 

Let Stretch Studio create a customised stretching treatment plan for you. We are an assisted stretching service in Melbourne dedicated to offering one-on-one services. Book a stretch now! 

Ben Williams