Whether you're considering your first stretch or want to know more about our programs, we've compiled answers to the most common questions about Stretched and assisted stretching.
Assisted stretching is a specialized form of passive stretching where a certified stretch therapist manually guides your body through customized stretch sequences. Unlike stretching on your own, you remain completely relaxed while your therapist positions your limbs with controlled, gentle force to lengthen muscles, release tension, and expand your range of motion. This method allows for deeper, more effective stretches than you can achieve alone.
When you stretch on your own, your muscles must work to hold positions, limiting how deep you can go. With assisted stretching, you completely relax while a trained professional does all the work. This passive approach allows for deeper stretches, better muscle isolation, and more effective results. Plus, your therapist can identify and address imbalances you might not notice yourself.
While both promote relaxation and wellness, they work differently. Massage focuses on manipulating soft tissue to relieve tension and improve circulation. Assisted stretching actively lengthens muscles and improves range of motion through guided movement. Many clients find the two complement each other beautifully—massage releases tension while stretching improves flexibility and mobility.
No. Physical therapy is a medical treatment for injuries, post-surgical recovery, and medical conditions, requiring diagnosis and treatment plans from licensed professionals. Assisted stretching is a wellness service focused on improving flexibility, mobility, and overall movement quality for healthy individuals. If you have an acute injury or medical condition, consult a physical therapist or doctor before visiting Stretched.
Your first visit begins with a brief consultation where your stretch therapist asks about your goals, lifestyle, activity level, and any areas of tightness or concern. They'll perform a quick flexibility assessment to establish your baseline. Then you'll lie on our comfortable stretch table as your therapist guides you through a personalized sequence of stretches. You'll be fully clothed throughout, and your only job is to relax completely and communicate about pressure and intensity. Most clients describe their first session as surprisingly relaxing and immediately effective.
Wear comfortable, flexible clothing that doesn't restrict movement—think gym wear, yoga attire, athletic shorts and t-shirts, or any loose-fitting clothes. Avoid jeans, restrictive clothing, or anything with zippers/buttons that might be uncomfortable when lying down. If you forget or don't have appropriate clothing, we provide complimentary loose-fitting loungewear for your session.
No, assisted stretching should never be painful. You'll feel a deep stretch sensation—that satisfying feeling of muscles lengthening—but never sharp pain. Your therapist constantly checks in with you and adjusts intensity based on your feedback. We work within your comfort zone while still challenging your flexibility. If anything ever feels too intense, simply let your therapist know and they'll immediately adjust.
Absolutely not! Assisted stretching is for every body, regardless of your current flexibility level. Whether you can barely touch your knees or you're already quite flexible, our therapists customize each session to meet you exactly where you are. In fact, less flexible clients often see the most dramatic improvements. Everyone starts somewhere—the important thing is to start.
Each session is 55 minutes. This includes a brief check-in at the start, the full-body stretching experience, and a moment to relax and integrate the benefits before you leave. The timing is designed to give you a complete, unhurried experience without taking up your entire day.
For optimal results, we recommend 1-2 sessions per week. Like any wellness practice, consistency is key—regular sessions build upon each other, creating cumulative improvements in flexibility and mobility. That said, even monthly sessions provide benefits. Your therapist can help you determine the ideal frequency based on your goals and lifestyle.
There's no wrong time! Some clients prefer morning sessions to start their day feeling loose and energized. Others come after work to release the day's tension. Athletes often book sessions after training for recovery or before events for preparation. Listen to your body and schedule when it works best for your routine.