What is Assisted Stretching and How Does it Work?

If you are looking to improve flexibility, mobility and overall well-being, assisted stretching is a popular and effective option. Assisted stretching offers a range of benefits, from stress relief to enhanced athletic performance. Let’s take a closer look at assisted stretching techniques, their benefits, the science behind them and the EōS Assisted Stretch Program.

WHAT IS ASSISTED STRETCH THERAPY?

Assisted stretching is a form of flexibility training in which a trained professional guides your muscles and joints through stretches. Assisted stretching has many benefits, such as alleviating tension, reducing muscle soreness and improving flexibility.

Unlike traditional stretching, which relies solely on your own efforts, assisted stretching uses guided support and gentle pressure for a deeper, more effective stretch. Think of it as having a private stretching coach who guides you through each movement, applying the right amount of support and resistance to maximize the effectiveness of each stretch. At EōS, our expert stretch technicians do exactly that through our Assisted Stretch program.

THE SCIENCE BEHIND ASSISTED STRETCHING

Assisted stretching is more than a series of random movements. Its benefits are backed by science. Here’s how assisted stretching exercises work within your body:

• Muscle Lengthening: Assisted stretching helps elongate muscle fibers, improving flexibility over time. This happens through a process called “stretch reflex adaptation,” in which muscles gradually adjust to increased length over time.
• Myofascial Release: Assisted stretches also affect the fascia, the connective tissue that surrounds muscles and organs. Gentle pressure and stretching can help release tension in the fascia, supporting better overall mobility.
• Neuromuscular Activation: Assisted stretching sessions stimulate the neuromuscular system. This encourages a better mind-muscle connection, helping to improve muscle control and coordination.
• Joint Lubrication: Mobilizing joints with assisted stretching techniques also produces synovial fluid. This helps lubricate joints, reducing stiffness and supporting overall joint health.

Together, these effects improve flexibility and range of motion, supporting better performance during workouts and sports. That makes assisted stretching beneficial both before workouts and as part of a post-workout recovery routine.

WHO IS ASSISTED STRETCHING FOR?

Assisted stretching isn’t just for those looking to improve their flexibility, but for everyone, from athletes and beginners to those with limited mobility. Whether your goal is to improve athletic performance, alleviate discomfort or support overall wellness, assisted stretching can be tailored to your unique needs. A qualified stretch-and-flexibility coach can help guide you toward the right techniques for your body.

ASSISTED STRETCHING TECHNIQUES

Want to learn the basics of full-body assisted stretching? Once you begin working with a private stretching coach, like our stretch technicians at EōS, here are a few different assisted stretching techniques they might use:

Static Assisted Stretching

This technique involves holding a stretch in a fixed position with a trainer’s assistance. Your trainer applies gentle pressure or support, helping you relax into the stretch and gradually increase your range of motion.

Dynamic Assisted Stretching

In dynamic assisted stretching, your trainer guides your limbs through a controlled range of motion. This technique often mimics specific movements from a sport or activity to improve flexibility and functional mobility, making it ideal to use before your workout rather than static stretching.

PNF (Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation) Stretching

PNF stretching combines muscle contraction and lengthening to improve flexibility. Your trainer provides resistance as you contract the targeted muscle group for a few seconds, followed by a deeper stretch as it relaxes.

Active Assisted Stretching

The active assisted stretch technique involves you actively engaging the targeted muscles while your trainer assists. This technique helps build strength while improving flexibility.

With knowledgeable Myofascial Technicians at EōS, you can find the assisted stretching techniques that work best for you. Want to try it out before committing? Our 7-Day Free Gym Trial gives you the opportunity to explore assisted stretching. When you join, your free Welcome Workout includes an hour-long one-on-one session with a stretch technician

THE EōS ASSISTED STRETCHING PROGRAM

Our Assisted Stretching Program delivers high-quality trainer-assisted stretching in a supportive environment. As an EōS member, you can choose from a variety of membership options. Stretch members can schedule assisted stretch sessions one, two or three times per week. You can also choose between 25-minute or 50-minute stretch sessions. Assisted stretching can be added to any active EōS membership.

What To Expect During A Session

Assisted stretching at EōS uses passive techniques, with the added advantage of a knowledgeable, skilled practitioner. Here’s what a typical one-on-one assisted stretching session looks like:

• Assessment: Your first stretch session typically begins with an assessment to understand your specific needs, limitations and areas of concern. Our experienced team of Myofascial Technicians (MyoTechs) will take you through a 3-point mobility assessment to help understand potential causes of limitation, stiffness and pain.
• Warm-Up: The MyoTech begins the session with a warm-up to prepare your muscles for stretching. This warm-up can include gentle movements or light massage. Initially, your MyoTech will often use static stretching and gentle mobilizations.
• Progressive Stretches: Stretches progress gradually to avoid excessive discomfort or pain. Your MyoTech will begin using more advanced assisted-stretching techniques, such as PNF and dynamic stretches.
• Cool-Down: The session may end with a cool-down, using gentle or relaxed stretching movements to help the body transition smoothly.

At EōS, our team of highly experienced MyoTechs bring experience in fitness, rehabilitation and corrective exercise. Each team member undergoes extensive training to learn the fundamentals of assisted stretching, assessing mobility limitations, and developing individualized mobility programs for a wide range of needs.

If you would like to try assisted stretching, book your free stretch session today! Please keep in mind that this service is currently available at select locations, with more coming soon.

ASSISTED STRETCHING FAQ

What is assisted stretching, and how is it different from regular stretching?

Assisted stretching involves a trained professional guiding your body through stretches to improve flexibility and mobility.

Do you need to be flexible to start assisted stretching?

You don’t need to be flexible to start assisted stretching, as it’s designed to improve flexibility for all levels.

How often should you go to benefit from assisted stretches?

To see results from assisted stretches, we suggest starting with two sessions per week, either 25 or 50 minutes. Those with limited mobility might require more frequent, longer-assisted stretch sessions, while others may require fewer sessions.

What membership type do I need to access assisted stretching?

Assisted stretching at EōS is available as an add-on for all membership types. Learn more about our membership options.

Where can I find assisted stretching near me?

Assisted stretching is available at select gyms. Availability varies by location, so check your nearest EōS Fitness location.