Why KINSTRETCH Is The Best Mobility Class Around

In 2017, I was at a fitness conference in Seattle with my crew from Born Fitness. For whatever reason, I kept hearing a group of coaches talk about how great “FRC” was. At the time, I chalked up FRC as another fitness acronym organization, like ART, MAT, DNS, CPT, etc., peddling the “next best thing.” However, it turned out to be anything but that. Fast forward to 2023, and FRC, or Functional Range Conditioning, is engrained into everything we do.

Unlike most organizations, FRC practices what it preaches and heavily relies on individualized practices to help people move and feel better. In other words, it’s the antithesis of cookie-cutter fitness training that most companies and businesses push on their clients. And that’s precisely why we love it.

Our business model hasn’t changed at all. We’re a one-on-one personal training organization that helps people move with purpose, and I don’t plan to change that anytime soon. However, the introduction to KINSTRETCH has made us think of the idea of doing personalized group fitness coaching.

But, What The Heck Is KINSTRETCH?

KINSTRETCH is a movement enhancement system developed by Dr. Andreo Spina. Dr. Spina is a sports chiropractor and international educator on mobility, strength, and human movement. The system is designed to improve body control, flexibility, and overall joint health. KINSTRETCH is a unique and highly effective approach to mobility training based on scientific principles and research.

And, above all else, it’s done in a group setting, which is pretty darn cool.

Understanding Mobility and Its Importance

Mobility is the ability to move a joint through its full range of motion without restriction or pain. It is an essential component of overall physical fitness and is critical in injury prevention, athletic performance, and overall well-being. Good mobility allows us to perform everyday tasks efficiently and participate in sports and physical activities without the risk of injury.

Unfortunately, modern lifestyles often lead to decreased mobility due to sedentary habits, poor posture, and inadequate physical activity. This reduced mobility can result in muscle imbalances, decreased flexibility, and an increased risk of injury. The good news is that mobility can be improved and maintained through targeted training and stretching programs, such as KINSTRETCH.

In the fitness world, mobility training has gained significant attention in recent years as more and more people recognize its importance in achieving optimal performance and preventing injuries. This has led to the developing of various mobility classes and programs, each with its unique approach and methodology. However, nothing competes with KINSTRETCH in this realm. Most other companies are starting to pull from FRC’s methods.

What Sets KINSTRETCH Apart From Other Mobility Classes

While several mobility classes are available, KINSTRETCH stands out for several reasons. First and foremost, it is a science-backed system grounded in principles of biomechanics, kinesiology, and physiology. This ensures that the techniques and exercises used in KINSTRETCH are safe and effective.

Another aspect that sets KINSTRETCH apart is its emphasis on active, rather than passive, stretching. Active stretching involves contracting the muscles to move a joint through its full range of motion. In contrast, passive stretching involves using external forces, such as gravity or an external object, to move the joint. Active stretching has been shown to be more effective at improving flexibility and joint mobility, as it strengthens the muscles and connective tissues responsible for stabilizing and controlling movement.

Additionally, KINSTRETCH focuses on individualized assessment and training. This means that each person’s unique mobility needs and limitations are considered, allowing for a customized approach to improving mobility. This is in contrast to many other mobility classes, which often rely on a one-size-fits-all approach.

The KINSTRETCH Methodology

The KINSTRETCH methodology is based on the Functional Range Conditioning (FRC) system, also developed by Dr. Spina. FRC is a comprehensive joint training system that focuses on improving mobility, strength, and control at the end ranges of motion. The KINSTRETCH methodology incorporates FRC principles and techniques, along with other evidence-based practices, to create a highly effective and targeted approach to mobility training.

KINSTRETCH classes typically begin by thoroughly assessing each individual’s current mobility and limitations. This allows the instructor to identify areas that need improvement and design a personalized training plan. The classes then progress through a series of exercises designed to improve joint mobility, control, and strength.

These exercises include Controlled Articular Rotations (CARs), which involve moving a joint through its full range of motion in a slow and controlled manner; Isometric Loading and Passive Range Holds (IL/PRH), which involve contracting the muscles at the end ranges of motion to build strength and control; and Progressive and Regressive Angular Isometric Loading (PAILs/RAILs), which involve gradually increasing and decreasing the intensity of isometric contractions to improve mobility and strength.

Benefits of KINSTRETCH for athletes and fitness enthusiasts

There are numerous benefits to incorporating KINSTRETCH into your fitness routine, regardless of your athletic background or fitness level. Some of the key benefits include:

1. Improved Joint Health: KINSTRETCH exercises help to maintain and improve joint health by promoting the flow of synovial fluid, which lubricates and nourishes the joints, and by strengthening the muscles, tendons, and ligaments that stabilize and protect the joints.
2. Increased Flexibility and Range of Motion: By focusing on active stretching techniques and strengthening the muscles responsible for controlling movement, KINSTRETCH can help increase flexibility and improve range of motion safely and effectively.
3. Injury Mitigation: Improving joint mobility and muscle balance can help to reduce the risk of injury by ensuring that the body is better equipped to handle the physical demands of sports and everyday activities.
4. Enhanced Athletic Performance: Greater mobility and flexibility can lead to improved performance in various sports and physical activities, as it allows for more efficient movement patterns and better overall body control.
5. Reduced Pain and Discomfort: Addressing mobility limitations and muscle imbalances can help to alleviate pain and discomfort associated with conditions such as tight muscles, joint stiffness, and poor posture.

How KINSTRETCH improves overall performance and Well-being

By addressing mobility limitations and improving joint health, KINSTRETCH can profoundly impact overall performance and well-being. For athletes, this can translate to improved performance on the field or the court and reduced risk of injury. For fitness enthusiasts, KINSTRETCH can help enhance their workouts’ effectiveness and prevent setbacks due to injury.

In addition to the physical benefits, KINSTRETCH can also have a positive impact on mental well-being. The focus on slow, controlled movements and mindful engagement with the body can help to reduce stress and anxiety, promote relaxation, and improve overall mental clarity.

Incorporating KINSTRETCH into your fitness routine

Incorporating KINSTRETCH into your fitness routine can be as simple as attending a class or working with a certified instructor. Motive Training ATX will certainly hold classes on an ongoing basis, and Motive Training Grand Rapids is set to do the same next year.

Alternatively, numerous online resources, including video tutorials and guided classes, can help you get started with KINSTRETCH at home. However, it is essential to note that working with a certified instructor is the best way to ensure you perform the exercises correctly and safely.

Ideally, KINSTRETCH should be practiced consistently, with sessions ideally performed 2-3 times per week for optimal results. However, as with any fitness program, it is essential to listen to your body and adjust the intensity and frequency of your sessions as needed.

Conclusion

There’s no arguing about this; KINSTRETCH is the best mobility class around for many reasons. Its science-backed methodology, focus on active stretching, and individualized approach set it apart from all other mobility classes. Moreover, the benefits extend far beyond just improved flexibility and joint health; it can enhance athletic performance, mitigate injury, and improve overall mental well-being.

By incorporating KINSTRETCH into your fitness routine and working with one of our certified instructors, you can unlock your body’s full potential and experience the transformative power of this cutting-edge mobility system. So why wait? Begin your KINSTRETCH journey today and discover a new level of physical freedom and well-being.

Written by:

Brian Murray, FRA, FRSC

Founder of Motive Training

Are you looking for a sound, effective fitness program? Reach out to us today.

We’ll teach you both how to move with purpose so you can lead a healthy, strong, and pain-free life, and we’re available online or in Grand Rapids, MI, and Austin, TX. You can find us in the Heartside district of Grand Rapids, MI, and the St. Elmo district in South Austin, TX.