Experts’ Opinion On Stretching Machines: What Are Best Stretching Machines to Flex Like a Pro

  Review
  Mar 20, 2024
Reviewed by Vivek Upadhyay

“Even if you don’t have time for a big workout, stretching in the morning and night really changes your body,” said Erin Heatherton – a Victoria’s Secret Angel. 

One fact that is clear as day is that “Stretching brings results”!! But do we need a stretching machine to attain our dream flexibility? For common people, body stretching machines have always been the first piece of equipment to hop on while working out, but let’s see what experts have to say about the importance of stretching machines. Does stretching demand a special machine? Or is it just bandwagon propaganda? 

Let’s read everything that you need to know if you are a stretching enthusiast or planning to invest in stretching equipment for your home. 

Let’s Begin With The Stretching Basics First

David Nolan, a physical therapist at Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital, quotes, “A lot of people don’t understand that stretching has to happen regularly. It should be daily,”. 

“When everything is cold, the fibers aren’t prepared and may be damaged. If you exercise first, you’ll get blood flow to the area, making the tissue more pliable and amenable to change,” says Nolan. 

But do we need machines to stretch out our bodies and prepare them for the rest of the workout? Nolan addresses this query by saying, “won’t put too much force on the muscle itself,” which means all you need is a muscle warm-up session by incorporating a light activity, such as a quick walk or some simple yoga poses. 

A few stretching types enable you to stretch the targeted areas for adept flexibility of a particular body organ; one such type is hyperbolic stretching

We can now say “stretching needs special equipment” is a pure Myth because stretching is a routine that can be done on your own. Simply put, all the stretcher machines out there hold no importance if you can pull and push muscles by yourself; all you have to take care of is consistency. 

“Be Regular, Be Fit” is the only workable mantra to keep oneself fit as a fiddle. 

Difference Between Flexibility and Mobility 

Alex Tauberg, DC, CSCS, the owner of the famous Tauberg Chiropractic and Rehabilitation in Pittsburgh, stated, “People often confuse flexibility and mobility.”

In clear words, “Flexibility is the ability to elongate a muscle. Mobility is the ability to move a joint through its range of motion.” 

Tauberg has advised that it’s better to focus more on active mobility than running behind flexibility. He also says, “This ends up improving your flexibility as well, but has the benefit of being tied in more closely with everyday activities,”.

To put it simpler, mobility is how well you move throughout the day and perform your regular activities. On the other hand, flexibility is how far your muscles can extend while working out. Flexibility is not a standard criterion to determine fitness; it can be poor or excessive, depending on the training and genetics of a person. 

Though better flexibility does improve mobility, there is no standard for measuring the flexibility of a fit person. In contrast, an individual who can perform day-to-day tasks efficiently can be called perfectly mobile. 

Let’s understand through an example:- a person who can walk, squat, do physical chores, run (lightly or heavily), bend over, and touch the lows and highs without any additional aid, has the mobility to live a normal, healthy life without needing intense flexibility training. 

Intro to Stretching Machines

A body stretching machine is designed to supplement the flexibility workout, just like the other gym machines that are used for strength training and cardiovascular workouts. 

Having said that, there is no logic that supports the necessity of such machines. But, they can improve holistic flexibility when used correctly. 

Bummer: The machines for stretching can cost you an arm and a leg. But all they do is flex your muscles, so do yoga and some other simpler activities meant to gain flexibility for FREE. 

Now, you must be wondering what stretching machines are doing out there in the fitness Cosmo if there is no proven benefit. Honestly, we can’t deny their contribution altogether; some part of the population has definitely benefited from them. But, they aren’t a necessity; instead, they are only an additional accessory. 

Let’s get acquainted with some cases where stretching machines can help. 

When and Why Are Stretching Machines Useful

Alex Tauberg says, “Stretching machines allow you to go deeper into a stretch than you otherwise would be able to. Theoretically, they could help improve flexibility more than just normal static stretching,” 

In simpler words, with a machine, you would be able to perform more intense stretching that you otherwise couldn’t do. Especially when you are a beginner, you might need equipment that will help you start with the basics, as you may end up doing it  incorrectly without any help.

Also, some stretching practices entail a partner in a therapeutic setting; that’s what chiropractors and therapists do with their clients. But what if you want such stretches at home? This is when stretching machines come into play. 

To be precise, when you need a particular stretching treatment, for which you are visiting clinics back and forth, machines for such stretching act as an affordable alternative. 

To recapitulate, stretching machines can be useful in some cases and events, such as:

  1. They can be your personal fitness trainer that keeps you motivated. 
  2. A stretching machine can target each and every muscle in your body, such as hips, hamstrings, quadriceps, calves, arms, upper and lower back, and more.
  3. They are usually gentle and effective.
  4. They help you allow therapeutic practices in your home setting without the need for a partner.
  5. These machines can cut down on the cost of physiotherapy and your chiropractor’s fee.
  6. Above all, you don’t need to be under strict supervision, as they are suitable for beginners as well. 

What are the Best Stretching Machines in 2023?

After this long discussion, we now know what the experts say and under what conditions a stretching machine is required. However, we don’t want you to spend your hard-earned money on any random machine for your home gym. 

Thus, we have handpicked a few options that will improve your full-body workout regime and provide value for every penny spent. 

Kupoge Pro Leg Stretcher

Kupoge Pro Leg2
User Rating:4.5
Price:$136.99
User Reviews: By Natalie Barber:“Took 5 minutes to assemble! Feels like a good stretch and won’t snap back in if you let go of the wheel.”

The one that has taken the market by storm is the Kupoge Pro Leg Stretcher machine. It is an adjustable leg extension machine with soft cushions that does more than it claims. 

You can stretch your inner thighs up to 180 degrees. Hence, it is said to be a perfect leg stretcher. The only challenge with this machine is its assembling process, but the on-pack instructions will help you set it up smoothly. However, individuals with larger body frames may find it a bit smaller to fit in. 

Kupoge has certainly built the best leg stretcher that has a sturdy build and is thus perfect for regular use. Your lower-body workout is sorted if you own this machine. But, if the legs are not your targeted area of stretching, it can only be a splurge and nothing more. 

Pros Cons 
PU Cushions are quite comfortable.Instructions on a package are a bit confusing for some.
Sturdy built.Not built for large-framed individuals. 
Best for full Inner-thighs stretch. 

Precor 240i Commercial Series Stretching Machine

Precor 240i
User Rating: 4.8/5
Price: $1,195.00
User Reviews: By DigitalBug“I added scans of the stretching guide to the product images above so you can see the eight different stretches you can do with this trainer.
The Precor StretchTrainer is very well-built with the exception of the internal screw sockets used to anchor the handlebars. The metal is rather soft and if you don’t have the bolt aligned correctly, you’ll ruin that socket quickly. Just keep in mind (when assembling) that those bolts should spin in with almost no resistance in the beginning. If you feel the least bit of pressure, back off and try again. I had one socket that was slightly misaligned and just a bit of pressure trying to get the bolt in mangled the threads beyond repair. Read More…”

This ergonomic full-body stretcher is a lightweight machine with dimensions of 52” (L) x 28” (W) x 36” (H). Weighing only sixty pounds, this machine takes up very little room. Hence, it is perfect for those who are wary of space. 

The Precor StretchTrainer has been living up to the expectations of its users by providing eight different stretches ranging from the back, glutes, hips, legs, and shoulders. This single piece of equipment can level up your stretching game without hogging too much land in your adobe. 

The picture-based instructional literature is easy to understand, as it makes it simple to perform the hard stretches even if you are doing them for the first time. 

Talking of comfort, this machine has been praised for offering the maximum of it; with a padded seat, knee pads, and handlebars, it ensures easement and safety at the same time. 

This Precor stretching machine uses the best protocols to keep you in the correct positions while you are performing your stretches; wrist wraps are incorporated to provide the highest control over your movement, thus eliminating the fear of tissue damage.

With a 90-day return window and multiple warranties ranging from 5 years on the overall frame, 2 years on all parts, and 90 days on upholstery, this product checks all the boxes one needs for ideal stretching equipment for the home. 

Pros Cons
Feather-light, compact, and easy to assemble. On the expensive side.
Offers full-body stretching.Shipping and delivery have been unsatisfactory in some cases.
Quite sturdy yet comfortable 
Easy to use for beginners too.
90 Days return and several warranties. 

Nitrofit Limber Pro Stretch Machine

Nitrofit Limber
User Rating: 4.6/5
Price: $419.99
User Reviews: By Randy RJust received and assembled it yesterday. The design and materials are better than I expected. Assembly went well by following the youtube video. The QR code in the user manual to bring up the assembly instructions didn’t work, but simply go to youtube and search for NitroFit Limber Pro Assembly. Well made. Like how they have the screws loosely screwed in place in the parts where they go. Makes it easy to sort through the process. Do be careful to assemble the parts as directed. If you screw something together backward, you may not find out until after you do additional steps. It could be a pain to have to go back to correct. Read More..”

Looking for an affordable stretcher machine that can give you a complete body stretch? Then, the Nitrofit Limber Pro Stretch Machine can do that for you without burning a hole in your pocket. 

It incorporates nine different exercises that target every muscle of the body; this machine is a one-for-all stretching solution. 

With dimensions of 50.5” (L) x 38.5” (W) x 22.4” (H) and a weight of fifty-six pounds, this is one of the tiniest yet most effective stretch machines on our list. If you are low on budget and space, worry no more, as Nitrofit Limber is there to serve you with a mobile machine with built-in wheels. 

No matter what shape and size you are, this machine has everything that you need for full-body stretchings, such as seven set positions, dual approach handles, an adjustable seat, and a weight capacity of 250 pounds. 

Calf stretching, which has been a concern for many, is now solved by the Nitrofit Limber Pro Stretch Machine, which consists of three different calf stretch angles and support bars to give you a stretching cage-like experience.

Even if you are a beginner, you won’t face any hassle while assembling and using it, as the guide clearly illustrates the features and instructions. 

Another feather in the cap is the persuasive customer service to help those who encounter even the slightest inconvenience while working with this stretching equipment.

Pros Cons 
Compact, lighter, and cheaper.May be less sturdy than competitors. 
Targets full-body stretching. Some users are not impressed with the quality of the material. 
Ideal for muscle soreness.
Best stretching machine for back
Wide range of adaptations and attachments. 
User-friendly customer service.
Built-in wheels for easier movement and storage.

Valor Fitness CA-27 Leg Stretcher Stretching Machine

Valor Fitness CA-27 Leg
User Rating: 4.2/5
Price: $233.98
User Reviews: By Amazon Customer“I purchased this stretch machine to give me the extra push I need to complete the full side splits. It is a very useful machine if you don’t have a partner to stretch with . Stretching on the ground is still really good to do so I wouldn’t rely on the machine too much when trying to become more flexible, just using it in moderation is good. . Also to make sure you have warmed up a lot before use it will help in furthering your progress and prevent injury.This is a great machine to help with my taekwon-do flexibility”

Martial art fitness is not easy, but what can make it achievable? It’s the Valor Fitness CA-27 Leg Stretcher that is precisely built to cater to martial arts and yoga goals. However, it is not limited to any particular sport, and it can enhance performance and flexibility for every athlete.

With forty-nine pounds of weight and dimensions of 48.5” (L) x 14.5 (W) x 21 (H), the innovative Leg Stretcher is the compact miracle you need in your home gym. Furthermore, it can carry a user capacity of 250 pounds, despite having a steel frame. 

The major targets of this machine are the hamstrings, glutes, and lower back muscles, as they are the most used areas in martial arts and other sports. 

Furthermore, it ensures deeper stretching and intensive control by providing a wheel crank device so that you can flex as much as you desire. 

The leg pads are extendable up to 180 degrees, and the back pads adjust between 105 and 110 degrees, enabling you to stretch better than any other device on the market. 

Usually, stretching devices don’t support extreme positions, such as “the splits,” but this device allows you to stretch rather deeply by giving you space to lean forward without experiencing any discomfort. 

Haven’t you used a stretching cage machine before? Don’t stress out; this machine is easy to assemble and convenient to use. The comfortable padding ensures safety and pleasure without being exorbitant. 

Pros Cons 
Sturdy and built with great user capacity.Some say that the crank wheel is hard to use.
Different settings options, even more than 180 degrees. Tracking angles and progress is not easy. 
Great padding.
Best for MMA athletes and yoga practitioners
Small and lightweight.
Very cost-effective. 

IdealStretch Leg Stretcher



IdealStretch
User Rating: 4.6/5
Price:$67.95
User Review: Sandra M“This device is Amazing. The first time I used it, I knew it was going to help me. I have extremely tight hamstrings, and it has been affecting me from my ankles to my knees and hips. This unit is lightweight but very sturdy, and it will last for many years. Read More….”

You must give the IdealStretch Leg Stretcher a shot if your targeted areas are calves, hamstrings, IT bands, and other nearby muscles. It is an apt choice for both martial arts stretching and knee rehabilitation after ACL surgery or any ortho-surgery for that matter. In addition, easy assembly, customization, and adjustability are the significant highlights of this device. 

Many therapists and physiotherapists even recommend this stretching machine for better muscle and bone health. The package consists of a card with Exercises units, a Calf Wedge Stretcher, and a DVD for instruction. Despite many perks, one thing that can ring a bell is its high price. 

ProsCons
Cost-EffectiveStretching capacity is moderate and not best for intensive stretching. 
Easy to use and highly convenient 
Best suited for hamstrings and controlling pressure on the spine and lower back.
Featherweight and easy to disassemble.  
Injured and old-age people can also use it. 

Innova ITX9600 Heavy Duty Inversion Table



Innova
User Rating: 4.6/5
Price:$129.95
User Review: Sandra M
I’ve been looking for an inverted table for a while because of my back and neck issues. I have sciatica issues, two herniated discs in the past and I seem to always sleep wrong and wake up with neck pain. This seemed reasonably priced, and finally decided to get one. Box was pretty heavy and almost hurt my back just getting it into the house by myself. Lol! Looked like lots of pieces to put together when I first opened it, but it was very easy and didn’t take long. Read More….

“True Balance System” is what the Innova ITX9600 Heavy Duty Inversion Table is about. If inverting is the technique you follow while stretching, you must need a good inversion table, and the Innova ITX9600 lives up to expectations. 

This stretching device ensures that people of all abilities can use it without worrying about overflowing pressure. Moreover, you can keep real-time track of your performance and progress with the in-built tracker. 

This machine’s adjustable height, headrest, and footrest settings ensure you can attain the finest inversion experience. From a height of 4 feet 10 to 6 feet and a weight category of up to 300 pounds, everyone can use this machine without worrying about comfort. 

The Innova ITX9600 Inversion Table follows an ergonomic approach with a holding system, a thickly cushioned backrest pad, soft foam handlebars, and other accessories that help you keep your physical ailments at bay. 

Note: If you encounter any medical conditions, consult your physician before using this stretching tool. 

This stretching table is quite mobile, as it only weighs 52 pounds and has 46” (L) x 28” (W) x 63” (H) dimensions. Above all, the instruction guide comes in handy for assembling the table. 

Pros Cons
Pocket-friendly It can be challenging to assemble.
Beginner-friendlyQuite bulky to store. 
Highly comfortable
Wide variety of easily adjustable settings
Great Decent weight and height range.
No additional support is required. 

Wrapping up: 

Flexibility is a practice to reduce muscle tension, enhance posture, and provide mental relaxation, but buying a machine for stretching is a subjective choice and depends upon health goals, budget, space, and various other aspects. 

We tried to call a spade a spade instead of promoting any false narrative that brands might spread to sell their stretching products. But if you believe having a tool will help you enhance your stretching routine, we have also sized up the best-stretching machine options for your convenience.  

Frequently Asked Questions

Ans:Stretching machines work for people looking for intensive stretching and improved flexibility. However, regular stretchers can do yoga and other simpler exercises.

Ans: The price range of stretching machines varies as per the range of extensions, features, and targeted areas. To exemplify, leg stretchers are comparatively cheaper than full-body stretching machines. 

Ans: Machine stretching is a term used for stretching exercises done using special equipment. It usually aids in more complex stretching exercises.

Ans: The stretch trainer offers several advantages, such as enhanced flexibility, better balance, and reduced muscle soreness. Also, it is advantageous for therapeutic exercises.

Sources:

Importance of stretching – By Harvard Health Publishing
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