Are you an athlete that suffers from nagging back pain? Do you want to reduce and manage your stress? Or perhaps, you’d like to improve your body’s posture and overall functional performance.
Whatever your reason is, stretching is one of the best solutions. And if you wish to experience stretching the right way, attending a stretch studio is your best bet.
Stretch studios became one of the hottest fitness trends in 2019. As more people rediscover the wonders of stretching, the need for stretch sessions continues to increase.
But the question is: how do you know if you’re joining the right stretching studio for you? Is joining a stretching class worth it?
Continue reading below as we guide you in your search for a stretching studio in Seattle.
Benefits of Joining a Studio
If you are wondering what the benefits are of joining a stretch studio, the answer is MANY. First, stretching reduces your odds of sustaining injuries.
When you stretch, you are increasing your body’s flexibility. This allows you to perform different exercises more fluidly. Stretching loosens up the muscles and keeps them from overcompensating during tough workouts.
By joining a studio, you can also reduce your stress levels. When your muscles are tight, they may lead to soreness. This tighness and soreness contributes to your body’s stress levels.
Stretching helps boost your energy levels by releasing endorphins and helps you think clearly.
When you join a stretching class, not only will you stretch your muscles, but you will also learn proper breathing. This is vital especially when holding certain stretches.
Like yoga, stretching teaches breathing exercises. However, it should be noted that the two are not the same.
Lastly, joining a stretching gym helps slow down the effects of aging. By becoming more mobile, your body can stay in great shape much longer and improve your overall health.
The Essentials in a Great Stretch Studio
When it comes to finding the right stretch studio, there are essential factors you need to consider. Let’s take a look at them below:
Qualified Instructors
Much of the success of a stretching class lies in the quality of the instructors. Thus, you need to check on their qualifications.
Do they possess the knowledge and proper training? Do they have experience in the field of health and wellness?
It is best to find instructors who have strong backgrounds in anatomy and human movement chains. This will ensure that the stretching exercises are safe and effective.
Conduct additional research on the instructors. Find out what people are saying about their work ethic.
Effective Programs
To complement the best instructors, the studio must offer topnotch programs. Look for a studio that offers personalized, one on one sessions. No matter how short the sessions are, they become more effective in a one-on-one setting.
Through personalized assisted stretching, you can better communicate with your instructor. You can carefully explain how you feel during and after each stretch. In turn, the instructor can adjust the stretches accordingly.
Some first-timers find group classes a bit harder. This is because there is little room to adjust the program without disrupting the flow of the class. What is easy for one may not be for another.
Personalized stretching eliminates this challenge.
Additionally, look for a studio that offers proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation or PNF. This is a technique that stretches the muscles to their limit. In turn, it triggers a protective reflex called the inverse myotatic reflex.
This type of reflex helps calm the muscles and prevent injuries.
The Best Equipment
To complete a solid stretching program, it must also feature the best equipment. Go for a studio that offers cutting-edge technology, like the VibraCussor, a vibrating instrument that helps relax the muscle’s guarding mechanisms, allowing you to stretch farther.
Important Reminders for Stretching
Your success in stretching is a two-way street. You need to play your part to maximize the benefits of the studio and its programs. Here are some important reminders to follow:
Check with Your Doctor
Before stepping into your first stretching session, make sure to consult with your doctor. Even if stretching is a low-impact, low-risk activity, it is wise to get your doctor’s approval. This is especially important if you have pre-existing conditions.
If you recently sustained an injury, stretching may exacerbate your condition. In turn, it will only delay your recovery instead of hastening it.
Know Your Stretching Limits
As a newbie, you need to know your stretching limits. The rule of thumb is to stretch only to the point of feeling some mild discomfort. As your sessions continue, your muscles become more flexible.
Eventually, you will be able to increase your stretches and hold them longer than before. When moving up to a more complex stretching exercise, make sure to ramp up slowly and learn how to manage your expectations.
Furthermore, don’t forget to mind your breathing while stretching. Unless your instructor tells you otherwise, breathe normally during stretching and allow your breath to help you relax into your stretches.
Balance Your Routine
Learn how to balance your stretching routine. Your instructor will teach you how to stretch properly at home. When doing stretches, be sure to balance them.
For example, if you are looking to stretch your quadriceps on the front of your thighs, follow it up by stretching the back of your legs, your hamstrings.
Don’t Forget to Warm Up
Last but not least, always warm-up before stretching. A 10-minute walk is a good warm-up. Furthermore, incorporate stretching into your cool-down activities.
Experience Top Notch Assisted Stretching Therapy!
Joining a stretch studio is one of the best health decisions you can make. Not only will you address that pesky back pain, but you will also improve your athletic performance and overall wellbeing.
If you’re searching for a reputable studio in Seattle, then you’ve come to the right place. We offer top notch assisted stretching therapy. We help athletes, office workers, and every age group through our safe and effective stretching techniques. The best part? We Stretch You!
Connect with us and let’s start stretching those muscles, today!