There are many benefits to stretching. Not only can stretching help increase your flexibility, which is an important factors to the body, but it can also improve your posture, reduce stress and body aches, and more.

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Stretching allows you to strengthen your performance in every area: from perfecting that swing on the golf course to reaching down to tie a shoe lace. Whether you are repetitive walking, climbing stairs, or sitting long hours at the desk, getting stretched is important.

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Neuromuscular Stretching / PNF Stretching & Biomechanics of Assisted Stretching

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Whether you’re a serious athlete, or seriously not, neuromuscular stretching and biomechanic of assisted stretching therapy can positively affect your performance, from increased range of motion to increased flexibility which can improve your posture.

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What is Neuromuscular Stretching? 

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Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) is a stretching technique utilized to improve muscle elasticity and has been shown to have a positive effect on active and passive range of motions (Funk et al., 2003; Lucas and Koslow, 1984; Wallin et al., 1985). 

Recent research has been focused on the efficacy of the intervention on certain outcome measures, such as passive range of motion (PROM), active range of motion (AROM), peak torque and muscular strength.

 

In clinical settings, PNF is already utilized by therapists to restore functional range of motion (ROM) and increase strength in patients who have sustained soft tissue damage or received invasive surgeries.

 

 

What is Biomechanics of Assisted Stretching?

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The most important concept to understanding the Biomechanics of Assisted Stretching is Newton’s 3rd Law of Motion. The Law of Action-Reaction states that “for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction.” During assisted stretching, the practitioner produces an action that causes the client to have a reaction. The trainer’s actions are defined in terms of how he applies force to the client during stretching. The client’s reaction is defined by his stretching form.

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There are two types of stretching. These are self-stretching and trainer assisted stretching. Trainer assisted stretching differs from self-stretching in that the trainer uses his body to move the client’s body. Assisted stretching can produce more stretch than self-stretching, because the trainer can cause more stretch than a person can pulling or pushing his own body alone. Assisted stretching is more effective due to the angle of approach of the trainer and the use of body weight by the trainer to apply a force. 

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