How Fascial Stretch Therapy Can Make You a Better Runner

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On the eve of attending another Fascial Stretch Therapy course I thought I’d share this post I wrote a few years ago about the benefits of Fascial Stretch Therapy (or Frederick Stretch Therapy as it is now called called) for runners. As you read this I will be on my way to Arizona for a level three review and sports-specific FST class. I can’t wait!

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As I've been saying, fascia is EVERYTHING! Learn about Fascial Stretch Therapy and how it can make you a better runner (and protect you from injury). #running #runningtips #FSTClick To Tweet

How Fascial Stretch Therapy Can Make You a Better Runner

As a Fascial Stretch Therapist, I know that I have made a difference in the lives of my clients, from the 70ish woman with Fibromyalgia who found relief from her symptoms to the 50-something tennis player who is working to stay flexible and on his game. Just yesterday, one of my regular clients mentioned that, at age 64, and as an avid golfer, she has no pain, which she attributes to her weekly FST sessions.

My first experience with Fascial Stretch Therapy was when, shortly after I started working at my current club, I was treated to a 30-minute session.  As someone in her late 50s and a longtime runner, I experienced stiffness and back pain, especially in the morning. Well, after that half-hour session, I was hopping out of bed with no pain at all! That was when I knew that FST was the real deal and that I wanted to become a stretch therapist.

As outlined in the book, Stretch to Win, FST can enhance performance in all sports. Many therapists work for professional sports teams and work with football, hockey, basketball, and baseball players.  I myself work at a country club, where I work mostly with golfers and tennis players.

As a runner, I have found a lot of relief from Fascial Stretch Therapy.

What is Fascial Stretch Therapy?

Fascial Stretch Therapy (or FST) targets not only the muscles, but also the fascia, the connective tissue that surrounds muscles, bones, and joints. FST also targets the entire joint and joint capsule, using traction to remove restrictions from movement and stimulate lubrication. A therapist will gently pull and move the arms, legs, spine, and neck in a smooth motion through varying planes of movement. There is no pain, not even discomfort. Instead, the gentle movement is stimulating and relaxing at the same time.

A Fascial Stretch Therapist will evaluate their client, looking for imbalances and the source of those imbalances. Then using breath to help with movement, the therapist will first warm up the joints and muscles with undulating stretching to maximize blood flow. Then using techniques of slow oscillating movement, as well as traction (gently pulling to create space in the joint) and modified PNF (proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation), synchronized with the breath, the therapist will stretch the entire body, following a logical anatomical order, to lengthen muscle, increase range of motion, and improve flexibility.

Read: 10 Benefits of FST

 

How Fascial Stretch Therapy Can Make You a Better Runner

Fascial Stretch Therapy increases functional flexibility

While static stretching can cause some gains in linear flexibility, FST uses multiple angles along the muscles-fascia lines, which translates to better overall, more functional, flexibility.

FST enhances recovery

FST can reduce muscle-fascia adhesions, relieve muscle soreness, and flush the lymphatic system. It also increases blood flow which helps speed up recovery time. Athletes in fascial stretch programs have been found to recover more quickly between training sessions and improve active range of motion compared to other stretching methods.

Fascial Stretch Therapy can help restore balance and symmetry

The FST therapist evaluates your condition and then creates a program that will restore balance and symmetry to your body. FST has been known to correct leg-length discrepancies through decompression of the joint capsule in the hip.

FST can increase your speed and quickness

Healthy fascia is fast and reactive and supports the need to move quickly. Improving range of motion and elasticity can maintain stride length and you will be better able to absorb impact.

Fascial Stretch Therapy can reduce the risk of injury

Lack of mobility can lead to compensations and increased risk of strains. Because FST focuses on the connective tissue, it can reduce these risks.

FST is designed for your specific needs

Unlike regular static stretching, a fascial stretch therapist treats both sides of your body differently, based on her assessment of your needs.

Fascial Stretch Therapy is calming, soothing, and pain-free

Running is a high-impact endeavor, and many of the treatments for running-related issues can be painful. FST calms the nervous system, relaxes the body, and is pain-free, all the while producing incredible results.

Fascial Stretch Therapy can address specific running issues and injuries

While not a medical therapy program, your FST therapist can work with physical therapists to help resolve common running issues, including plantar fasciitis, sciatica, piriformis syndrome, and other gait-related injuries.

The conclusion? That Fascial Stretch Therapy is an essential part of a runner’s performance and recovery program.

Have you ever had a Fascial Stretch Therapy session? Have I intrigued you? If you’re interested check the Stretch to Win website for a therapist near you.

Athletes in the Coachella Valley/La Quinta area! Contact me for a special introductory rate and summer specials! You can experience FST in the privacy of your own home. Find more information about Desert Stretch here.

Learn more: Facial Stretch Therapy by Ann Frederick and Chris Frederick

 

And Now It’s Time for the Runners Roundup!

Linkup with the #RunnersRoundup with @DeborahBrooks14, @milebymilerun, @runningwithpugs, and me! Bring your best #runningrelated posts, find new blogs to follow, and share your love of #running!Click To Tweet

 

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