Office professionals know all too well the discomfort that can come as a result of too much time behind a desk.
And while many take medication or get a massage to cope with pent-up tension, others are now paying professionals to ‘stretch’ them out.
Stretch Studios – the first of its kind in Australia – helps people stretch sore and tired muscles with ‘flexologists’ – people who have been specially trained in stretching.
If you’re short on time and in need of a stretch, you can pay a professional to help you out
And although it may sound like a trendy thing to do, it’s something that also came with many benefits, according to co-owner Damian Scarf.
‘Stretching your muscles as often as possible is the most effective way to improve your flexibility,’ he told FEMAIL.
‘It [stretching] can increase blood flow, help you sleep better and aid with digestion.
‘It helps the whole body to function better.’
The benefits of flexology include better flexibility, improved posture and better sleep
Mr Scarf said those who worked at the assisted stretch studios came from a background in yoga, massage or physiotherapy and were specifically trained in flexology.
‘Stretching offers a better range of movement and can activate the deep postural muscles,’ Ms Scarf explained.
Despite the fact stretching as a form of fitness was quite new, it’s something that’s proving incredibly popular.
‘People who visit a physio are often given a list of stretches they are supposed to but this is something that never gets done,’ said Mr Scarf.
‘Now you can visit a stretch studio and pay someone to do these with you.’
Despite the fact stretching as a form of fitness was quite new, it’s something that’s proving incredibly popular
Stretch session times range anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour and roughly cost a $1.00 per minute and an hour session costs $99.
Mr Scott said up and coming athletes were also turning to professional stretching to help them avoid injury.
‘Schools are sending kids in top football and soccer teams to see us prevent injury.’
And while many may view stretching with an expert as an unnecessary luxury, it’s something that could be as good for you as a regular massage
In fact, he said students from nearby Scots College in Sydney who had been regularly visiting the studio had reduced their injuries by half.
And while many may view stretching with an expert as an unnecessary luxury, it’s something that could be as good for you as a regular massage.
‘Every minute of the stretching process is helping your body. It doesn’t just feel good, it’s doing good.’