Stretching is not just for athletes. It supports an active lifestyle and plays a real role in recovery after injury or surgery. Active isolated stretching is a modern technique used across the health and wellness field.
HICI Go is an online center hosting a wide catalog of health and beauty courses for people across the U.S., including select live, in-person options. We serve students, professionals and everyday learners nationwide, with massage courses covering specific, targeted techniques.
Here's a closer look at active isolated stretching and how you can build this skill through HICI Go.
Developed by Aaron Mattes, MS, RKT, LMT, active isolated stretching targets major muscle groups using a repetitive, two-second technique. This dynamic, athletic approach has proven more effective than static stretching (holding a fixed position) or ballistic stretching (bouncing movements).
Also known as the Mattes Method, this technique works through targeted muscle lengthening and myofascial release. Specific muscles are isolated by contracting the opposing muscle group. Holding each stretch for just two seconds lengthens the muscle without triggering its protective reflex, the response that would otherwise cause it to contract. A wide range of professionals rely on this method, including:
For decades, this technique has shown up in training programs and continuing education for massage therapists. It helps warm up muscles and build flexibility before deeper bodywork begins and in sports massage specifically, it supports recovery and peak performance.
This technique is easy to pick up and easy to apply, whether you are working with clients or practicing at home. Some parents even learn the basics to help their young athletes perform better in sports. It can be done solo, with a partner or with tools like a foam roller or resistance band. It’s also shown real benefit for people managing conditions such as:
People who use this technique regularly often report:
These benefits go further than comfort. Increased flexibility helps prevent injury and supports healthy tissue repair, while also improving agility, performance and rehabilitation outcomes. For many people, pairing this technique with others makes everyday movement more comfortable and improves overall quality of life.
Through HICI Go’s massage therapy courses, you’ll learn how active isolated stretching connects to a range of specific massage techniques. Our platform is built to be simple to navigate, with live webinars and on-demand video courses always available. Select live, in-person courses are also offered.
Led by industry experts, our courses give you the tools to:
HICI Go hosts a wide range of learning opportunities for beauty, health and wellness professionals and enthusiasts alike, making it simple to grow your practice or pick up something new for your own life.
Ready to add active isolated stretching to your massage technique? HICI Go makes it easy to fit education into a busy schedule. Our courses are built for professionals pursuing continuing education, but anyone curious about the subject is welcome to join.
Online instruction is available throughout the U.S., with select live, in-person options as well. Contact us to learn more about our massage continuing education courses.
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