Assisted stretching can take your flexibility to the next level by using props or a partner to help you hold poses longer and move deeper into a stretch. Adding assisted elements makes stretching more productive and enjoyable. This guide covers the benefits of assisted stretch, best props to use, proper technique with a partner, integrating assisted stretches into your routine, and how to maximize results safely.

Benefits of Assisted Stretching

Integrating assisted stretching offers advantages over stretching alone:

Go Deeper Into Stretches

The support of a prop or partner’s leverage allows you to gently extend further into muscle elongation and expand your range of motion.

Hold Stretches Longer

Staying in a deep stretch becomes easier and more comfortable with assistance, increasing benefits.

Enhanced Relaxation

The aid provided reduces effort needed to hold a pose. This enables greater relaxation and focus on the stretch.

Customized to Ability Level

The amount of assistance adjusts to your flexibility level, providing a personalized stretching experience.

Prevent Overstretching

Assistance helps avoid pushing the stretch too far, too fast, reducing injury risk.

Improve Technique

Hands-on cues from a partner can help achieve optimal body positioning and alignment.

Adding assisted elements makes stretching more productive and enjoyable.

Best Props for Assisted Stretching

A variety of props can provide helpful assistance:

Stretching Straps

These straps allow your arms and hands to extend further in reaches and folds. They gently open the back, shoulders and hamstrings.

Yoga Blocks

Blocks are great for lifts to reduce strain in seated or standing stretches. They also provide support in balancing poses.

Foam Rollers

For backbends, foam rollers provide stable counterpressure and support to help maximize the back arch safely.

Resistance Bands

Bands wrapped around specific body parts give you something to gently pull against as you stretch the opposing muscles.

Benches or Chairs

Elevated surfaces reduce strain in certain stretches and allow you to relax deeper into the pose.

Get creative with props to find new ways to enhance your favorite stretches!

Best Practices for Partner Assisted Stretching

If you have a trusted partner to assist with hands-on stretching, keep these tips in mind:

• Communicate comfort levels frequently. Provide feedback on what feels good or uncomfortable.
• Move slowly and gently into assisted stretches – no quick bouncing motions.
• Do not push into painful ranges – stretch to the point of tension without sharp pains.
• Hold static stretches for 15-30 seconds and repeat 2-3 times on each side.
• Keep breathing steadily. Exhale as you move deeper into the stretch.
• Stretch regularly even when not in pain to maintain mobility.

Following safe technique prevents injury so you can maximize flexibility gains long-term.

Sample Assisted Stretching Routines

To help you get started, here are 15 minute assisted stretching sequences:

Morning Routine

• Partner Assisted Chest Opener – 30 seconds each side
• Wall Calf Stretch with Yoga Strap – 1 minute each leg
• Supported Low Lunge Hold with Blocks – 1 minute each leg
• Seated Forward Fold with Strap – 2 minutes
• Supine Figure Four Hip Stretch with Strap – 1 minute each side

Evening Wind Down

• Child’s Pose with Foam Roller Backbend – 2 minutes
• Partner Assisted Quad Stretch – 1 minute each leg
• Shoulder Extension on Roller – 1 minute each arm
• Strapped Hamstring Stretch – 2 minutes
• Inner Thigh Stretch with Partner – 2 minutes

Get creative with props and assistance to customize routines for your needs.

Benefits of Consistent Assisted Stretching

Adding frequent assisted stretching to your fitness regimen provides excellent benefits:

• Improved mobility, range of motion and flexibility
• Increased athletic performance and workout recovery
• Enhanced posture and body alignment
• Reduced risk of strains or injuries
• Decreased muscle soreness and tightness
• Greater relaxation and stress relief

The support of props and partners makes assisted stretching an extremely effective way to improve extension, agility and ease. Try it consistently and watch your flexibility improve!

Conclusion

Using assistance tools like props or partners’ guidance enables you to safely deepen your stretch and reap improve flexibility results. Support takes the intensity out of the deepest poses. Approach assisted stretching with patience as you ease into your edge gently. You’ll find your body responding quickly with improved mobility.