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StretchTrainer

StretchTrainer at a gym
Company:	Precor USA
Dimensions:	52" x 28" x 36"
Weight:	60 lbs.
Material:	Powder-coated steel
Retail Price (2010):	$795.00

The Precor USA StretchTrainer is a piece of exercise equipment used to improve flexibility, coordination and overall athletic performance. The seated design ensures that users are kept in the correct position to effectively stretch muscle groups without any risk of injury. This machine mirrors human movement by being fluid and natural while enhancing flexibility capabilities.

Overview

This stretching machine is designed to incorporate stretching into every workout; it takes only ten minutes to complete a regimen. Effective stretching is beneficial when warming up or cooling down from any workout; not only does stretching muscles help prevent injury during exercise, but increased flexibility is one of the health-related components of physical fitness. The StretchTrainer has been engineered to be lightweight with a small footprint so that it fits conveniently in a home gym or fitness center. The unique, seated design helps stabilize the back during stretching movements.

Mechanics

The StretchTrainer works by using the exerciser's own weight to comfortably and effectively stretch the major muscle groups. The user will sit on the cushioned seat with his or her knees placed on the kneepad and grab the padded handlebars in front. This ergonomic design ensures the correct stretching position to keep the spine aligned and prevent any straining. This machine is constructed of a high-quality steel frame that can support users up to 250 pounds and accommodate exercisers of any height. The tilting seat leans back and forth on a quiet, self-lubricated pivot point. As a safety feature, the StretchTrainer has two polyester wrists straps attached to the handlebars so that when used properly, if the user loses grip, he or she will not fall back out of the seat and onto the floor.

Usage

The StretchTrainer comes with an attached placard with simple instructions and graphics showing the user the eight essential stretches to target key muscle groups:

• Lower Back
• Hamstrings
• Gluteal/Hips
• Hips/Legs/Back
• Inner Thighs/Groin
• Upper Back
• Shoulders
• Quadriceps

By placing the legs in the indicated position, gripping the handlebars as shown, and tilting slowly backwards, the user will be able to distinctly stretch each of the designated muscle groups.

Physical Benefits

Stretching is a specific form of exercise that leads to increased muscle control, flexibility, range of motion, circulation, and overall fitness level.

An active stretching regimen can strengthen muscles because stretching affects muscles in a way similar to strength training, just on a smaller scale. In fact, a stretching regimen has been shown to increase weight-lifting abilities, improve endurance, and assist in plyometrics. Research shows that StretchTrainer users can significantly increase their flexibility (as judged by a basic sit and reach test) after 30 days of use, regardless of age.

Stretching is well known for preventing injuries that arise from other forms of exercise. This is because tight muscles are more likely to be strained or pulled due to a poor range of motion. High flexibility ensures that muscles stay limber and are accustomed to extensive physical activity. Not only can stretching prevent injuries, it can also serve as a form of rehabilitation. Most types of soft tissue damage can be benefited by static stretching; gently applying tension to muscles over time will help to strengthen them.

If not performed properly, stretching can become ineffective or even dangerous. Stretching becomes detrimental when a muscle is stretched too far too quickly or when not executed in a proper position; a muscle strain or pull can result. The design of the StretchTrainer makes sure that the body and joints are kept in line, and because the machine's tension is actually the user's own weight, it is virtually impossible to hyperextend any muscles.