Stretching is perhaps one of the most underrated components of a fitness routine. It might seem like something only a beginner would engage in. The truth is, stretching is important even for those well-versed in the world of fitness. Even those with sedentary lifestyles could benefit from stretching. Independently stretching before and after workouts is great. Even better is participating in a professional-assisted stretching session called mobility stretching. Mobility stretching can help a person improve their level of flexibility and reduce their chances of obtaining an injury from working out or engaging in general everyday movements like lifting. Curious to learn how? Keep reading to find out how it works. Targets Deep Muscle Layers While some recovery methods emphasize relaxing the top layer of muscles, assisted stretching targets deeper into the muscle and connective tissues. After all, muscle-related issues are often more than just on the surface; the culprit is often more extensive. By getting deep into the layers of the muscles and other tissues, mobility stretching allows athletes and others to achieve better recovery results, including less pain and tension in the muscles. With less tension and pain comes improved flexibility and a lower risk of muscle-related injuries. Lubricates the Joints for Improved Mobility Regardless of age, joints can get stuck or stiff. This can happen from different causes: injuries, overuse, underuse, or poor posture. Apart from being inconvenient in terms of limiting mobility, stiff joints can be uncomfortable, sluggish, or even painful. Mobility stretching helps lubricate your stuck joints by stimulating the production of a natural fluid found within your joints. Well-lubricated joints are easier and faster to move in all directions. This allows you to have better flexibility and also prevents injuries due to less friction during movements. Realigns Imbalances in the Musculoskeletal System Poor posture or imbalances in the muscles can lead to mobility problems, pain, and general discomfort. Sometimes, when trying to correct your posture, you might experience even more pain, with your body already having adapted to its improper and unnatural position. Mobility stretching provides a solution. Rather than directly improving your posture, it gets to the root of the problem. It helps lengthen tight muscles, which otherwise tug joints out of alignment and increase wear and tear. Mobility stretching essentially helps reset the muscles and joints of the body, nipping imbalances in the bud. Promotes Circulation When muscles are tense, it’s hard for your body to properly circulate nutrient-rich blood to the parts of your body in need of healing, such as muscle tears. Tight muscles also have a tendency to hold onto waste products like lactic acid, which can lead to muscle fatigue and soreness as long as the buildup persists. Relaxing tight muscles via assisted stretching helps release a buildup of waste in the tissues. It also promotes adequate blood circulation. In turn, you’ll notice your muscles more free-flowing and less rigid after your stretching session. Give your body the relief it needs with a mobility stretching session. Book your visit with our wellness team at Recovery Lab today.