What is Active Isolated Stretching and Strengthening?
Is a remarkable physical therapy and/or sports performance
modality that often relieves even chronic pain (back,neck,wrist,etc.). By studying the origin, insertion, and action of
every muscle, Aaron Mattes developed over 170 stretches to target areas, some of which
once seemed impossible to reach, bringing in fresh blood and oxygen, freeing and aligning muscle, tendon and fascial fibers. One
of the most notable traits of AIS is that it works with the body’s natural
reflexes, creating fast results.
With rhythmic breathing and six to eight ounces of pressure, the tissues are taken beyond their current range of motion. In a single set of ten, easy, two-second repetitions of AIS,
the tissues are often able to increase anywhere from five to more than twenty
degrees ROM. The dramatic increases
with Active Isolated Stretching are possible because by
actively engaging one muscle, the muscle that performs the opposite muscle must
relax (Sherrington's Law). If you would like to read more in our article Click Here
The Benefits of AIS
-Improves oxygenation and nutrition of myofascial structures promoting growth and repair.
-Stimulates the circulation and drainage of lymph, which helps eliminate metabolic wastes, thereby flushing tissues.
-Improves flexibility and elasticity of muscles, tendons, and fascia. Releases restrictions.
-Breaks down "gluing" among fascial sheathes.
-Separates fibers and breaks down adhesions that may result from trauma or inflammation.
-Realigns collagen fibers.
-Reduces muscle spasm.
-Reduces the risk of muscle strain or tear.
-Facilitates neuro-muscular re-education for dynamic functional ROM.
-Makes good posture possible. Often increases height!
AIS is highly effective; that is why Mattes' clients refer their friends and family to his clinic and why he is in such demand as a speaker for professional medical and physical therapy organizations world wide. (www.stretchingusa.com)
Radio Interview 5/2/10 on Wide World of Health: 650 KSTE w/Nosler & Mattes
AIS - Active Isolated Stretching - Flexibility technique discovered and developed by Aaron Mattes that honors (works with) the natural flexes of the body. You can learn these stretches and make them a part of your life!
Assisted AIS - hands on assisted Mattes Method stretching (at Aaron's clinic in Saraota Florida, or with me in San Francisco.
Active Isolated Strengthening - Mattes Method Exercises to create strength throughout your (new?) range of motion. Can be done in office, home or gym.