This is the style of stretching I use in my Massage practice, as well as for my own personal use. I recommend and use this method because it isolates the muscles that are to be stretched by contracting the opposite muscles. The benefits of this type of stretching are many.

1. Improve preparation for athletic activity. Warming up the muscles increases the blood flow, improving the pliability, which promotes increased stamina and enhances the performance. This can also help reduce the chances of injury.
2. Helps keep your postural integrity due to the aging process.
3. If an injury is present then stretching will facilitate blood circulation and oxygenation, helping rid the body of waste products and restore health and wellness.

These are but a few of the overall benefits of stretching. One of my typical massage sessions I will incorporate several of these type of stretches for overall health and flexibility. I can also design a program to meet your specific needs.