Assisted stretching for runners

Members of ISRM ( The Institute for Soft Tissue Therapists) BSc sports and exercise rehabilitation

BASRaT - British Association of Sport Rehabilitates

Expert Stretch Therapists in Angel, Islington

Stretching for runners

We’ve crafted specialised 30- and 50-minute assisted stretching sessions just for runners — designed to increase flexibility, reduce injury risk, and speed up recovery.

Whether you're training for a marathon, aiming for a new PB, or just running to stay fit, our Runner’s Stretch Program uses proven PNF stretching techniques to help you move better, feel looser, and perform at your best — right from your very first session.

A physical therapist is providing a leg stretch exercise to a man lying on a massage table in a room with wooden walls and potted plants.

stretch to run better

Running efficiently starts with flexible, well-functioning muscles — and that’s exactly what PNF assisted stretching delivers.

Tight muscles can shorten your stride, reduce hip mobility, and lead to compensations that waste energy and increase injury risk. Our PNF-assisted stretching sessions actively improve muscle coordination, mobility, and flexibility, unlocking smoother, more efficient movement.

Feel the difference from your very first session — and run with greater ease, power, and control.

benefits for runners

Injury prevention for runners

Running injuries like IT band syndrome, shin splints, and tight calves are common — but preventable. PNF stretching stands out with its unique focus on both strength and flexibility, making it one of the most effective tools for injury prevention. It primes your body for performance and builds long-term resilience, so you can train consistently and confidently.

Graphic depiction of a knee injury, showing damage with bent knee, torn ligament or cartilage, and pain signals.

Flexibility frontiers that last

Unlike passive stretching, which often hits a plateau, PNF works with your body to increase range of motion safely and pain-free. By bypassing the stretch reflex that normally limits you, PNF allows for noticeable improvements in flexibility — and those gains last.

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Tailored for runner’s bodies

No two runners move the same. Whether you have a longer stride, pronate one foot, swing your arms differently, or favor one side — we adapt our approach to fit your body. At Dr Stretch, your therapist will assess your unique running mechanics and target all key areas that impact your stride, posture, and performance.

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Active recovery for runners

Recovery is as crucial as the training itself. Post-run tightness and soreness can limit performance and lead to injury. PNF-assisted stretching is a science-backed recovery tool that boosts circulation, relieves tension, and improves flexibility — speeding up your return to training while helping your body stay loose and injury-free.

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Why PNF over static stretching?

While static stretching simply targets muscles, PNF engages both your muscular and nervous systems. The result is a safer, more effective, and longer-lasting improvement in flexibility — with zero risk of overstretching or micro-tears. Unlike traditional stretching methods, PNF is pain-free, controlled, and personalised for your needs as a runner.

Orange and black running icon showing a person in motion.

PNF stretching designed by physios

Originally developed by physiotherapists in the 1950s, PNF (Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation) connects your nervous system with your muscles. It helps create lasting muscle memory, allowing your brain to retain the openness and mobility achieved during a session. The result? A deeper, more effective stretch with benefits that go beyond the treatment room.

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Benefits of Assisted Stretching

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Improved flexibility

At Dr Stretch, we combine neurological engagement with expert-assisted stretching to dramatically improve your range of motion.
Our therapists help you stretch beyond what you can do alone — unlocking long-lasting gains in mobility and movement. Whether you’re stiff from training or feeling tight from sitting, we help your body stay loose and flexible.

A man with glasses is assisting a shirtless man with curly hair in stretching, as he raises his arm above his head in an indoor setting.

Better posture

Our assisted stretching sessions target muscular imbalances that affect posture — releasing tight areas while activating weaker ones.
This is ideal for anyone who spends long hours sitting — including office workers, drivers, and anyone experiencing sciatica or back pain. We help bring your body back into alignment so you can move and feel better, every day.

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Injury prevention

PNF stretching at Dr Stretch not only boosts flexibility but also strengthens key muscle groups, helping reduce the risk of strains, sprains, and recurring injuries.
This is about more than stretching — it’s about building long-term resilience, so your body stays strong, mobile, and ready for anything.

A man wearing glasses and a black t-shirt is receiving a massage from a woman with muscular arms in a room with wooden walls.

ATHLETIC
PERFORMANCE

Athletes and active individuals can greatly benefit from assisted stretching. By increasing your range of motion, it not only enhances performance but also accelerates recovery between workouts.

Unlock your full potential with regular assisted stretching sessions.

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STRESS
REDUCTION

At Dr Stretch, we combine neurological engagement with expert-assisted stretching to dramatically improve your range of motion.
Our therapists help you stretch beyond what you can do alone — unlocking long-lasting gains in mobility and movement. Whether you’re stiff from training or feeling tight from sitting, we help your body stay loose and flexible.

A chiropractor providing a therapy or massage to a male patient lying on a treatment table, with indoor plants and a wood-paneled wall in the background.

PAIN FREE
STRETCHIN


PNF stretching taps into your nervous system to safely teach your body new limits in flexibility. Unlike static or passive stretching, it avoids overstressing the muscles — so you won’t wake up sore the next day.

Instead, you’ll experience a pain-free sense of openness that your body begins to retain with regular sessions. Over time, you’ll move more freely, with greater control and comfort.

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Stretching techniques & therapies

Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF)

(PNF) stretching also known as contract release stretching, involves activating, or tensing the muscles being stretched. Once this muscle is relaxed, we will take the stretch further, before repeating the process. This stretching method has a positive impact on the “muscle spindles” ( the sensory receptor within the muscles), essentially tricking the spindle reflex to help you gain more flexibility.

Active release technique (ART)

ART is a soft tissue method which involves stretching a muscle while applying pressure or massage to that muscles. This active and deep technique can be quite intense, but is highly effective in gaining mobility.

FAQs

  • Absolutely not. We stretch everyone from the really inflexible to the hyper mobile. Assisted stretching is for every body, regardless of your flexibility.

  • Is assisted stretching good for arthritis?

    We see a lot of people with various forms of arthritis in a number of different joints.

    In fact, PNF assisted stretching is ideal for reducing joint inflammation to ease aches and pains caused by arthritis. We highly recommend assisted stretching if you have any form of arthritis to help you feel better and move pain-free. It’s a wonderful way to improve joint mobility, strengthen your body, reduce any inflammation and improve overall flexibility.

    check out this blog to find out the difference between morning vs evening stretching.

  • At Dr. Stretch in London, our certified therapists guide you through a series of assisted stretches, targeting specific muscle groups. These sessions are designed to improve flexibility, reduce muscle tension, and prevent injuries. Each session is customised to meet your individual needs and goals. At Dr. Stretch in London, our certified therapists guide you through a series of assisted stretches, targeting specific muscle groups. These sessions are designed to improve flexibility, reduce muscle tension, and prevent injuries. Each session is customised to meet your individual needs and goals.

    Find out: How to stretch for pain relief

  • Stretch Therapy offers numerous benefits, including:

    • Improved flexibility and range of motion

    • Enhanced muscle recovery and reduced soreness

    • Better posture and alignment

    • Increased circulation

    • Reduced stress and relaxation

    if you would like to find out how assisted stretching can help relieve tension and improve flexibility.

  • The frequency of Stretch Therapy sessions depends on your goals and needs. Many clients at Dr. Stretch in London find that attending 1-2 sessions per week provides optimal results. Your therapist will work with you to develop a schedule that suits your lifestyle.

    Check out this blog where we going into more depth with this topic.

  • Stretch Therapy is generally a gentle and relaxing experience. Our therapists at Dr. Stretch in London work within your comfort level, gradually increasing the intensity of stretches as your flexibility improves. Any discomfort should be mild and temporary.

  • Yes, Stretch Therapy can be highly effective for managing chronic pain and aiding in injury recovery. At Dr. Stretch, our therapists tailor sessions to address specific areas of concern, helping to relieve pain, improve mobility, and prevent future injuries.

    Find out: how to increase hip mobility

  • Stretch Therapy is generally safe for most people. However, if you have a specific medical condition, it's best to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new therapy. Our therapists at Dr. Stretch can also provide guidance based on your individual health needs.