Is it recommended to “stretch out” clients once they are done working out? Is there a certain protocol when doing so?
Stretching your client can be a great service that you provide in your sessions. Partner stretching creates dynamic resistance and intensity that static stretching alone sometimes cannot provide. Also, some of your clientele might not be stretching as frequently as you’d prefer, perhaps because they don’t feel confident stretching on their own, they don’t have (or make) the time to stretch, or maybe they just don’t want to stretch. While studies on various kinds of stretching have shown mixed results, stretching your client can have a multitude of positive effects on their workouts in regards to the prevention of the injuries, increased range of motion (flexibility), enhanced coordination, and improved blood flow. Below are some important tips to remember on the correct protocol of stretching out your clients.
1. Communicate – Always have open communication when it comes to stretching your client and confirm with them beforehand if they are both comfortable with, and open to you stretching them. By confirming, you are showing them respect and courtesy. You never want to stretch out at client without getting their permission. The very last thing you’d ever want to do is to make any of your clientele feel uncomfortable, either during the session or during the stretching process.
2. Know your Client – Stretching your client can be incredibly intense for them and quite personal. Therefore, be aware of their physical and mental limitations while keeping in the mind their flexibility levels. Stretching should be a release and therefore, a gratifying experience. Remember to never stretch your client to the point of pain or discomfort. The act of stretching your client should never be something that they are worried or uneasy about in their session. Moreover, you want your client as relaxed as possible during the stretching process since this will also allow you to perform a more valuable stretch.
3. Educate – Some of your clients might not be aware of the benefits of stretching. They may have questions on why stretching is important, or why you have chosen to stretch particular muscles (and in certain ways) for them during their session. Remember to provide detailed information to each client on why you stretch specific muscle(s) for them. By providing education, you will help your clients understand the importance and value of stretching, while displaying proper protocol to the stretching process.
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For over ten years, Shaun has successfully run his own personal training business in the New York City Metro area. Able to relate and adapt to each individual, Shaun prides himself on developing exercise plans and nutritional menus to foster every client's fitness needs. His clientele ranges from the athlete, and senior citizen, to bodybuilder, and dancer. Shaun's specialties include: strength training, power techniques, corrective injury training, and core stability training.
In addition to the highly regarded Master Trainer status, Shaun is a certified personal trainer of the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). With NASM Shaun also holds specialized certifications in: Pre- and Post-Natal, Corrective Exercise Practices, Cardiovascular Weight Loss, Youth Training, Senior Citizen Training, Balance Training, Core Stabilization, and Self Myofascial Release (SMR). Additionally, Shaun is certified by the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) as a Strength and Conditioning Specialist and Sports Performance Nutrition Specialist, with training in the Female Athlete, Knee & Shoulder Rehabilitation, and Marathon Training. Shaun earned his Bachelors degree in English Literature and Writing from the University of Delaware.
Shaun's first full-length book, "Push-up Progression Workout for a Stronger Core" is currently available worldwide both in paperback and e-book formats. It was featured as one of three top books in 2013 for healthy living as selected by Dr. John Whyte of The Discovery Channel. His latest book, "Push-up Progression (2nd Edition)" has already achieved great success and notoriety in the world of fitness. It is currently featured in bookstores across the United States and United Kingdom in paperback and available wherever e-books are sold. Shaun has had a multitude of articles, program designs, and tips published within a variety of books, magazines, and on websites in the world of fitness and beyond including: Price World Publishing, Demos Medical Publishing, Livestrong, Rodale Books, OnFitness Magazine, Fitness Magazine, Brides Magazine, and GO: AirTran Magazine. Additionally, Fitness Professional Online recognizes Shaun as an "expert," answering questions for other fitness and health professionals.
Shaun also has media experience in both television and radio, ranging from fitness modeling, to hosting his own weekly radio fitness show.
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