Chapter 11 Flexibility Training Program Design
Trainer Assisted Stretching
T
rainer assisted stretching is different from PNF stretching,
as there is no contract, hold, relax. The stretches com-
pleted are static stretches and the trainer is providing gentle
overpressure to assist in eliciting increased lengthening through-
out the muscle. In addition, the client is instructed to attempt to
completely relax and let the trainer do the work (e.g. lifting the
weight of a limb).Providing trainer assisted stretching to your client is a great way
to personalize your training session. An assisted stretching pe-
riod at the end of your sessions is an effective way to help your
clients wind down after a workout, giving you time to discuss the
workout and build rapport. Unfortunately, due to limited time that
a trainer has with someone, the client is typically left to his or her
own devices during the warm-up, cool-down and stretch.Offering some hands on flexibility work with your client is invalu-
able, as it enhances the cool down, it improves flexibility, and
assisted stretching allows the trainer to get some tactile feedback
on the state of the clients’ flexibility. After a possibly gruelling
workout, your client deserves some down time and the chance
to relax. The assisted stretching allows them to completely relax
because the trainer is doing virtually all of the work.The principles of stretching still apply to
assisted stretching. The stretching should
never be taken to the point of pain, there-
fore constant discussion and interaction
must take place between the trainer and
client. The trainer’s intention is to take the
weight of the limb so that the client does not
have to use their strength to resist gravity.
The next step is to apply gentle over pres-
sure in the line of the stretch.The biomechanics of the assisted stretches
are exactly the same as the static stretches
that the client completes without assistance.
Please refer to CFES Personal Trainer’s On
the Floor Resources for descriptions of all of
the stretches.Pectoralis Major Trainer
Assisted Stretch
Have the client sit on the floor on in a chair
and place their hands on the back of their head with their elbows
flaring wide. Stand behind the chair and gently pull the elbows
back toward you until a stretch is felt in the pecs. Hold for 30
seconds.Assisted Chest Stretch
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