After a day of working out, cooking, working, and running kids around a good stretch sounded so good. Stretchlab stretch gym is the perfect way to gain better flexibility and relax!
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What is a stretch gym?
StretchLab is a stretch gym founded on the belief that everyone, regardless of age or fitness level, can benefit from improved flexibility. Established in 2015 by Saul Zake and Xponential Fitness, StretchLab has since become a pioneer in the field of assisted stretching, offering one-on-one stretching sessions from certified Flexologists.
The science of stretching
I have never touched my toes. True fact.
I was always good at sports and excelled at them but when it came time for the sit and reach, that box ruined my goals of making one of the top fitness spots in my PE class every single year. Because my muscles are a lot tighter I've noticed the types of injuries I tend to get are a result of improper stretching.
Assisted stretching, as practiced at StretchLab, involves a trained professional, known as a Flexologist, guiding clients through a series of dynamic stretches. Unlike static stretching, where a person stretches on their own and holds a position, assisted stretching is a collaborative and personalized experience. It's like having your former high school trainer right there with you!
Understanding Stretch Threshold
One of the reasons I first came to a stretch gym was that growing up my trainers and physical therapists usually helped reduce my injuries. When I stretch myself, I often stop at my stretch threshold. The stretch threshold is the point at which you stop stretching because it hurts. Having someone stretch you and work with you to stretch past that threshold helps a lot for developing flexibility.
Getting Started
All you have to do is call your local Stretchlab stretch gym and make an appointment. Walk in and your flexologist will have you do a few stretches in front of a computer then give you an assessment of your flexibility.
Your flexologist than goes through a quick workout targeting areas that are tighter like your hips or back area to get an idea of where you are struggling with mobility and the areas that it is stemming from.
Sessions and plans
After your initial assessment there are several plans that they offer you. There are 25 minute sessions and 50 minute sessions. You will have the chance to pick the session time that is right for you.
FAQ
There is no age limit! If you have a child under 18 a parent or guardian will need to sign a waiver for them.
Plan on wearing shorts, yoga pants, leggings, t-shirts, or yoga tops.
Many of the flexologists I have had are physical therapy assistants or have worked in similar fields and then complete additional extensive training once hired.
If you have an acute injury you are not allowed to do StretchLab. StretchLab is NOT a replacement for a physical therapist or doctor. StretchLab is good for approved chronic illness (with doctor approval), discomfort, tightness, etc. It is also good for helping with injuries that your doctor or physical therapist feels would benefit from additional stretching.
You will feel like you got a good workout. You also might feel a little bit of soreness.
Yes Stretchlab accepts Health Savings Account (HSA) cards.
Yes, StretchLab welcomes individuals of all fitness levels, including beginners. Certified Flexologists assess each client's needs and create personalized stretching routines tailored to their abilities and goals.
No equipment is required. StretchLab provides all the necessary equipment for the session, including comfortable padded tables and any props needed for specific stretches.
Be sure to take some of our Clif shot bloks so you have some energy to get through the workout. End your stretch gym workout with some protein.
Marie
I went to stretch lab for the first time this week after 2 years of pain after hardly being able to walk for the first 5 months of 2019. I did 3 months of physical therapy too, and the exercises exacerbated the issue, so I had to stop them. I was on the verge of getting shots in my back when I changed how I slept and got enough relief that I was able to cancel them. I never was able to walk for any distance after that or stand for any length of time without pain. After 2 visits in one week, I can already feel a difference. I was also on the verge of getting evaluated for hip replacement, and that pain seems to be receding as well. I'm hoping it isn't a placebo affect, and am going to continue with this to see how far I can rehab myself after 2 years of reduced functionality. I just wish it didn't cost as much. I don't think it is a reimbursible charge for my account. Eventually I hope to be able to practice yoga again.
burntapple
I'm so glad that StretchLab has been working well for you! That's great to hear! I hope you are able to get back to yoga soon! Keep me posted, I'd love to hear how it's continuing to go for you in a few months! ---Traci