02 Mar What Is Myofascial Stretching?

If you’re up to speed with the latest exercise and injury prevention techniques, you’ve probably come across the term myofascial stretching. You may have even tried it yourself in our ELDOA^TM group classes. But what is myofascial stretching, exactly? How is it different from regular stretching? What benefits does it bring?

What is myofascial stretching?

Myofascial stretching is a relatively new, yet highly effective technique. It is gaining popularity as a tremendous way to treat and prevent joint injuries—especially among athletes. Myofascial stretching is very different from classic stretching techniques. Instead of stretching out the muscle itself, it uses precise postures and highly coordinated movements to target the fascia surrounding specific muscles and joints.

Fasciais the connective tissue that envelops individual organs and muscles throughout the body. Fascia is super important because 1) it holds everything in place within your body and 2) it provides nourishment to all organs and tissues.

So let’s recap. What is myofascial stretching? It is a highly active and rejuvenating stretching technique. Rather than targeting the muscle itself, it targets the fascia around individual muscles and joints. By doing so, it promotes positive nourishment and healing in the particular areas you choose to target.

Please note: Because the stretches and postures involved in this technique are very precise, instruction by a trained professional is required.

Benefits of myofascial stretching

Myofascial stretching helps to nourish and rejuvenate the tissues throughout your entire body—including the muscles, joints, and organs. This cutting-edge technique is a deeply beneficial tool that can be used to:

• Treat and prevent joint injuries
• Enhance muscle performance
• Improve muscle recovery
• Increase flexibility and range of motion
• Improve posture and muscle balance
• Promote spine and joint health
• Promote good hydration

Want to give it a try? Check out our ELDOA group classes. For a deeper understanding of myofascial stretching and the ELDOA method, enroll in the SomaTraining program. We will have the honor of hosting SomaTraining Institute Chicago for some of the courses right here in St. Louis!