Partner stretching is popular within martial-arts but I only
use it in very strict circumstances.
1.
The participants must have excellent communication
between them. This involves spotting technique. The partner being stretched is
always in control. It is this participant who asks to intensify the stretch,
slow the stretch down or stop the stretch all together. This participant must
also bring about any important points. If he/she needs to adjust the stretch to
correct the technique, he/she must say so. The other partner’s job is to simply
ask if the stretched partner is okay.
2.
The participants must be of a high level.
Stretching experience leads to better somatic feedback. This simply means that
the participants are aware if they can push themselves further into a stretch
or they need to stop. Better flexibility also lowers risk of a strain.
Beginners who use this method will certainly put themselves
at risk. Here are some alternative methods of assisted stretching:
Gravity
The simple force that vertically acts on our physiology can
be used to deepen your split. You can control it by holding onto a wall or a
chair. It is always available.
Resistance Bands
Well they’re not always available but resistance bands are
certainly a cheap and useful method of enhancing a stretch. They can even be
used horizontally which is something that gravity cannot offer. If your
resistance band is looped you can anchor it to a stable point. This can be used
to progress a hip flexor stretch or a glute stretch.
Towel
Well it may be in your gym bag anyway. Wrap it around your
foot to deepen the hamstring stretch or use it to enhance a triceps stretch.
Towels are good for when you have the means to hold it with one hand and pull
with the other to push a stretch further.
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