Stretching and Massage Therapy; A Great Combination and How it Helps Your Work Out

Stretching. One of the oldest and easiest ways to increase muscle flexibility. As a Massage Therapist I work with many people day in and day out and find that the majority of the people I work with do not apply any stretching techniques into their wellness program. Often times getting into an exercise routine after a long time away from one can seem daunting and intimidating. I'm here to assure you that regardless of the level of fitness you practice, stretching is so vital in accompanying any exercise you do. Find a Massage Therapist that incorporates assisted stretching in their session. The difference in the result of the Massage session is amazing. There is simply something about stretching out a muscle that relieves tension that a Massage cannot do. When you combine the two (stretching and massage) you have an amazing result which benefits your client greatly and because the average person does not take the time to stretch they will appreciate it! One of the largest obstacles I see with why people do not stretch is the following two 1) Stretching is slow and you must be patient. Most people want results fast. 2) Stretching does not produce large muscles (what most men want) or loss of fat (what most women want). It is our human nature to want to results quickly, especially in this day and age, however, I assure you that taking as little five minutes to stretch before and after your work out and will be beneficial, any personal trainer will support this! For example, it will produce less cramping and muscle spasms. If you've ever experience a charlie horse (a steady muscle contraction in your calf muscle) it is very painful! Stretching also prevents your muscles from injury, not completely of course, you have to respect the limits of your body but it does allow you to prevent many strains and sprains in the muscles you could have otherwise avoided. Prevention is key and stretching is a wonderful preventive tool that also allows you to increase flexibility. Enjoy, stay healthy and go out there and get a massage!