How does Active Isolated stretching differs from other forms of stretching?

During a session at Stretch in Hong Kong, you are actively participating. By contracting the opposite muscle to the target muscle that is to be stretched, the target muscle is relaxed, making it easier to stretch.

Active Isolated stretches are only held past the end range, or barrier, for no longer than 2 seconds so as to prevent the stretch reflex from activating. The stretch reflex is there to prevent tissues from being over-stretched.

The more you innervate and activate the contracting muscle the more inhibited and relaxed the tissues of the stretched muscle will be.

Most static stretches that are held for longer then 5 seconds actually reduce blood supply to the target muscles causing them to fatigue from lack of oxygen.

What is the difference between a therapist stretching me and I stretching myself?

All therapists here at Stretch are trained manual therapists and have an extensive knowledge of the human anatomy and physiology. They, therefore, understand that when they meet a tight or resisting joint, they can quickly assess the affects it will have on your bio-mechanics.

Our therapists are stretching facilitators. Since this is an active form of stretching, they guide you through complex protocols that are designed to peel off the layers of connective tissue, always stretching from superficial tissues to the deepest layers.

Being stretched by a qualified therapist enables you to go further than your natural barrier and obtain, with practice, full range of motion, therefore full mobility.

Whatever progress you make, we would always encourage you to stretch at home using the methods and tools that we provide for you. This is a very safe stretching modality that you can practice on your own, on the plane, at home or at the office.

However, to maintain your newly regained full mobility, it takes some discipline. We understand that your busy life make it sometimes difficult for you to do your stretching exercices on your own. But we are here to help you do them and do them correctly. So you reap the benefits!

Is this physiotherapy?

In the USA, Active Isolated Stretching is taught to physiotherapists who incorporate it in their  programmes. AIS. is not physiotherapy as such but it is most definitely physical therapy.

Is it covered by insurance?

Some health insurance providers cover our treatments as long as you have been referred to us by a registered health care provider. However, we recommend you consult with your insurance provider for more accurate information.

If you are a primary healthcare provider, you are able to have this covered by insurance. In the USA, it is very common to have this work covered by insurance as they are aware that AIS can take many people away from going to expensive doctors and medical facilities. AIS is used as a pain management tool for many musculo-skeletal problems.

How does Active Isolated Stretching compare to Yoga or Pilates?

Active Isolated Stretching complements Yoga and Pilates in many ways.

Many of our clients are practicing 2 or 3 of these fitness disciplines as they all improves their mobility and general well-being.

Traditionally Yoga focuses on connecting Mind, Body and Spirit and Pilates is traditionally used to focus on strengthening and stablizing the abdominal and pelvic core.

We at Stretch identify resistance right down to the deepest fascial planes at the joints where flexibility is determined. We lower this resistence so you can freely practice Yoga and Pilates with little risk of injury.

Active Isolated Stretching will help you go further in your practice of Yoga and will allow you to do certain postures, without lower risk of injury. If your muscles are tight, you will feel and see your physical limitations in your practice of Yoga. As you grow older, your body looses flexibility and is more prone to injury. Combine Yoga and regular AIS, and enjoy a free, flexible and fully mobile body.

What about the long 2 minute stretching that I do in Yoga?

This form of static stretching is controlled by your breathing. Your instructors will encourage you not to force the stretch, since you are at your end range of motion. By gently breathing through the stretch, you are reducing the activity of the stretch reflex. Never force the stretch as there is always a potential to micro-tear muscle and connective tissue, which will create scarring and hinder your flexibility.

Does Active Isolated Stretching hurt?

Unlike most of the 20 or so other stretching modalities being used in the sports and fitness world, this method of switching on a muscle in order to switch off the target muscle does not hurt. We use the term “light irritation” to describe the sensation.

If there is acute or sharp pain, we then assume there is underlying pathology and will investigate further. One of the main comments from clients is that they are surprised as to how gentle this stretching method is. We look at this as a method to gradually unwind and open sticky and adhesive muscle and connective tissue.

How can I fully benefit from a session?

By being as pro-active as you can. Learn as much about your physical body as you want to know as the therapists are more than happy to make you understand your postural issues.

Understanding the cause of your pain or dysfunctions can really help you to prevent them happening  in the future.

How often should I stretch?

From the time we get up in the morning to the time we go to bed we are in a contracted state. In other word, we are shortening and tightening our frames. Then you have the weight of gravity to contend with. This pushes down on you constantly at 1kg per square cm!

Our 80+ year old clients come and see us once or twice a week to improve their flexibility and maintain their mobility. Our golfing clients come every week as they found that A.I.S. increase their game.

It really depends on the individual as to how often they should stretch. Once they know how to stretch, we encourage people to stretch every day if they can. If you were a professional athlete you would be stretching daily.

Will you write a programme of stretches?

All our clients are given stretching homework. We have AIS books for sale and stretching ropes and posters to encourage you to stretch at home.

In 2007 we will start a stretching DVD which will cover all aspects of our work here at Stretch.