They say that “just like a rubber band, if you don’t stretch regularly, you’ll become stiff and inflexible.” A core part of the fitness routines of athletes like Serena Williams and Tom Brady, as well as many others, regular stretching provides significant benefits to the body. Stretched takes it up a notch with assisted stretching sessions.
Located on Hanover Street in Edinburgh, Stretched offers a “unique holistic experience” with assisted stretching sessions, bringing hospitality and wellbeing into one space. Guests can expect one-on-one assisted stretching sessions with a qualified stretch therapist, aiding recovery and relaxation.
Stretched was founded by Craig McHugh, who has worked with a myriad of patients both through the NHS and privately. Having studied an Honours Degree in Physiotherapy from Glasgow Caledonian University, Craig has also received an HND in Sports Therapy and an advanced certification in Dynamic Assisted Stretching through IGCT, IICT, WMF, and WMC.
Stretched fills a gap in the wellness space for assisted stretching, with a space solely dedicated to helping enhance the mobility and recovery of those who visit.
What to expect at an assisted stretching session at Stretched?
Secret Edinburgh went to see for ourselves what it’s all about, and I must say, I did not know what to expect. Initially, it feels like you’re lying down for a massage in a shared space. However, once the stretch therapist begins their magic, it all becomes clear.
Expect your limbs to be moved around to get the best stretch while holding a single stretch for some time. The therapist also made sure we are getting the best stretch possible, checking in with how it is feeling each time. By the end of the 55-minute session, my body felt more relaxed, with the effects lasting into the coming days.
So, the main reason the assisted stretching session at Stretched felt better than a massage was the aftermath – while a massage can feel relaxing in the moment (and believe me, I have gotten many massages in my lifetime), Stretched provided a prolonged sense of muscle relief.
Assisted stretching sessions
Stretched offers 25-minute sessions for £35 and 50-minute sessions for £65, all with a trained Stretched Therapist, all trained in-house by Craig McHugh himself. You can book your session here.