Active Isolated Stretching:
Active Isolated Stretching (AIS) is a scientifically designed flexibility system that works with the body to create and maintain balance. With AIS you gently stretch a specific muscle, hold the
stretch for 2 seconds and then release. The pumping action circulates purifying oxygen into the muscle tissue and flushes out damaging toxins such as lactic acid.
Pioneered by Aaron L. Mattes, Active Isolated Stretching is practiced in many areas of healthcare and sports by a multitude of Doctors, Massage Therapists, Physical Therapists, Chiropractors, Personal Trainers and Athletes to improve the body's potential to not only heal itself, but to enhance performance as well. Active Isolated Stretching helps the body to function efficiently by increasing range of motion of the joint and neuro-muscular re-education.
AIS is effective in treating a range
of physical disorders including:
Logical Therapy Wellness Center:
555 W. Granada Blvd.
Suite D-9
Ormond Beach, Fl. 32176
(386) 673-1880
How AIS Works
There are two primary principles that provide the basis for how AIS works. The first is called reciprocal inhibition and innervation, which means that if you want to lift your arm, your nervous system has to shut off the muscles that bring your arm down while turning on the ones that lift it up. AIS works with your nervous system, and in the process re-educates the muscles to function properly and how to utilize and maintain full range of motion. The second principle is to hold the stretch for 2 seconds, and no longer. Holding a stretch for longer than 2.5 to 3 seconds will cause your body to engage a protective reflex. This stretch reflex will trigger a muscle contraction in the muscle you are trying to stretch.
By not tripping the stretch reflex you are able to get a gentle stretch, without the body fighting itself. The stretch is repeated 8 to 10 times in a set. The repeated "pumping" action of the muscle allows for increased circulation to the area. Because AIS targets very specific angles of the muscle and promotes full ROM of the joint, the results are a highly efficient and effective stretch.
Benefits of AIS