If you want to do well in Martial Arts and in life, you have to hone your body’s flexibility. To improve your flexibility, you have to do stretching exercises like Jackie Chan and Bruce Lee did when they had to perform fighting scenes in their movies! These stretching exercises should be done in a regular basis. Like the usual exercise routine, you have to establish a stretching regimen as a prelude to your Martial Arts practice.
Beyond the stretches you do in training and at the gym there are other more focused approaches, that may be appropriate to incorporate. One such device is the Martial Arts Leg Stretcher that can help increase flexibility. Leg stretching is particularly important in some Martial Arts that stress very flexible, fast legs to do high and powerful kicks.
There are several types of equipment that can work as a Martial Arts Leg Stretcher. There are many online, we’ve selected 5 that have been recommended and some that we have used, and put an Amazon link (we may get a small affiliate fee for this). They are also known as hamstring or groin stretching machines, and they are also used by people who have sciatic problems. If you are looking for the perfect leg stretcher equipment, below are just 5 of the most trusted types:
1. Valor Fitness Leg Stretching Machine
Weight Capacity: 250 lbs.
Price: $186.99 approx
The Valor Fitness Leg Stretching Machine comes fully assembled. This is great for users who hate thinking about assembling parts. This model is great for beginners who would like to increase leg flexibility at a slow pace. The thing works by increments, so users have to go from a small degree up to a higher one little by little, turning the wheel slowly in the process.
It is recommended that users stay in a certain degree for at least 30 seconds, relax, and then go higher for another degree and hold it for another 30 seconds. Users can increase until the maximum position is achieved.
Look & Buy it here; Valor Fitness Stretching Machine
2. Century Fitness VersaFlex Leg Stretcher
Weight Capacity: 250 lbs.
Price: $199.99
The Century Fitness VersaFlex Leg Stretcher can accommodate up to 4 positions with a maximum stretch of 190°. The best thing about this device is its progress indicator. It allows users to keep track of their stretching progress over time. It also has very comfortable pads and back support. This equipment however may be difficult for people who are 6 ft. tall or above.
Another slight downside is that, the Century Fitness VersaFlex Leg Stretcher still needs to be assembled, and this could be a hassle for those who are not into assembling and building things. Users also report that the instruction manual that goes with it is unclear, so it is best to look for video guides on the Internet.
Look & Buy it here; Century Fitness VersaFlex Leg Stretcher
3. Gymnastic Portable 3 Bar Leg Stretching Machine
Weight Capacity: Sits on floor
Price: $29.49
Easily transportable and relatively cheap stretching kit ideal for all Martial Arts, Yoga, Gym, even Ballet. It is very easy to use, needs no assembly and is ideal to stretch whilst you watch tv or listen to a podcast. Very easy to store and even carry with you.
This is the classic leg stretching piece of kit. Stretch, breathe, relax and hold.
Look & Buy it here; Classic 3 Bar Leg Stretcher
4. Yoga EVO Elastic Stretching Strap
Price: $15
For those who get intimidated by bulky, metal fitness equipment, then this might be the best alternative for you! The Yoga EVO Elastic Stretching Strap is made from a combination of spandex and cotton that can be used like a loop that can serve as resistance adjustments whenever you go stretching. It’s also a great tool for stretching warm-ups, and you can use this in combination with the other stretching equipment that you have.
The strap is 55 inches long, but it can stretch for up to 110 inches without breaking. It is light, portable, and very easy to use. It can be brought to work, a studio, or even if you have to go out of town! Best of all, it can also increase leg flexibility for those Martial Arts moves too.
This is also a great starter for those who don’t have the budget yet for metal stretcher equipment. If you can spare some of your lunch money in a week, you can certainly purchase this and get started on working those flexes!
Look & Buy it here; Elastic Leg Stretcher
5. Ideal Stretch Hamstring Stretcher Device
Price: $46.99
This is also another affordable and lightweight stretching device on the list that can help improve your Martial Arts kicks! The Ideal Stretch Hamstring Stretcher Device helps keep your knees in position while it stretches the rest of your legs (hamstrings and calf).
This is also a great device for beginners who want to avoid injury and over-exertion in the leg stretching process. With its affordable price, it is a great pair for the Yoga EVO Elastic Stretching Strap. And because it is small and less bulkier than the other equipment, it is also portable and easier to put away. Best of all, there’s no need to assemble it too!
Look & Buy it here; Hamstring Stretcher
How to Pick the Right Leg Stretcher
Picking the right leg stretcher will largely depend on your budget, personal preference, and the type of intensity in stretching that you like. Beginners can start with lighter and easier to use equipment like the Ideal Stretch Hamstring Stretcher Device or the Yoga EVO Elastic Stretching Strap (or a combination of both).
These devices actually help strengthen your endurance and improve leg flexibility without the danger of over-exertion. They are also best for those who are training with little spare cash. Don’t worry, these are still very effective leg stretchers (as long as you keep up with a daily regimen).
For those who are ready to test their leg flexibility further, the bulkier equipment is most recommended. The Valor Fitness Leg Stretching Machine, and the Century Fitness VersaFlex Leg Stretcher have measurable and trackable degrees of flexibility that can help bring those kicks up a notch! These equipment are however pricier, but it could be a very good investment for serious Martial Arts practitioners.
Author Bio:
Sarah Jacobs is an experienced writer who loves creating articles that can benefit others. She has worked as a freelance writer in the past making informative articles and fascinating stories. She has extensive knowledge in a variety of fields such as technology, business, finance, marketing, personal development, and more.
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