Stretching helps to increase flexibility, improve posture, relax the mind, and decrease tension. A stretch studio solely focuses on stretching exercises to help you move freely without discomfort or pain. Here is more on what to expect at a stretch studio:
What Is the Goal of Stretch Sessions?
The main purpose of stretch sessions is to teach individuals proper stretching techniques to benefit their body. It may be difficult to stay accountable to health and fitness goals when working at it alone. You can benefit from a stretch studio if you are looking for sessions that focus on specific body parts that get tight from cycling or running for long distances. Other studios may provide general sessions focusing on each muscle group, showcasing dynamic and static stretches.
What Happens Before a Stretch Session?
Before a session, a stretch specialist will discuss with you your past injuries and current flexibility. The specialist needs to understand your lifestyle to determine what stretches you can benefit from. They will explain how the session works and provide instructions on simple breathing techniques.
A stretch therapist will communicate with you through the sessions to know your comfort level. If you opt to proceed, you will start to learn more about your body’s imbalances and have them corrected. Stretch studios are entirely dedicated to stretching and recovery. A stretch session involves a stretch therapist guiding you through the assisted and dynamic stretches. The goal is to increase the range of motion and flexibility, and reduce soreness and stiffness.
What Should I Expect From a Stretch Session?
Stretch therapy involves assisted stretching, where the work gets done for you. Stretches are done on custom-made massage tables. An experienced stretch therapist knows physiology, anatomy, and stretching techniques to take you through the sessions by customizing stretches that match your needs. You may be encouraged to work and engage your muscles during some stretches. For other stretches, you may be asked to relax your limbs completely to benefit from the stretch most.
A stretch therapist will focus on stretches that target connective tissues around the joints and the muscles. They will identify poses that help to move your body and stretch specific muscle groups. They may use comfortable straps for some stretches to increase effectiveness. The sessions may help you breathe and relax as the stretch therapist supports the weight of your limbs when moving through the stretches. You should experience a stretching sensation but not pain.
What Should I Wear During Stretch Sessions?
Wear loose-fitting or stretchy clothing to avoid restricting your mobility. Such clothing includes gym shorts, t-shirts, yoga pants, or workout clothes. When the stretch therapist moves and guides your body, you should feel comfortable with what you’re wearing. Avoid wearing clothing that can restrict your movements, such as slacks, belts, and jeans.
How Often Should I Attend a Stretch Session?
Most stretch studios allow you to go for a session whenever you want. You can go for the occasional session when you feel extra tense or attend weekly sessions for enhanced mobility. Stretch specialists can assist you in stretching areas you cannot get to and get much deeper stretches than you would on your own.
Not every person can afford to pay someone to stretch them daily. You can include a stretch session in your routine once or twice a month. Use whatever you have learned during the sessions to stretch for several minutes each day at home.
Choose the Right Stretch Studio
Choose a reputable stretch studio to take your performance, health, and wellness to the next level. The professionals who work at the studio should be highly trained and passionate to help you achieve and maintain mobility, allowing you to feel your best. They should be able to customize their stretching exercises to match your individual needs.