The Local Bird Tries
I walked in not entirely sure whether I was about to be massaged, folded like a deckchair or allowed a sneaky daytime nap. Here’s what actually happened.
So, what actually happens?
StretchLab offers one-on-one assisted stretching with a trained Flexologist. When I arrived, we first talked about how my body was feeling, where I tend to get tight and whether I had any injuries or problem areas.
Then it was onto one of the studio’s specially designed stretch benches, fully clothed and wearing grip socks. There are no oils, robes or whale noises. This is not a massage, and you’re not left alone wondering what is about to happen to your hamstrings.
The session is customised to your body and your Flexologist checks the pressure throughout. At times, you gently push and then release—a technique known as PNF that, in normal-person language, is basically “push, relax, stretch a bit deeper”.
If your hamstring starts drafting a formal complaint, you can speak up.
What did it feel like?
It felt somewhere between a personalised mobility session and the very thorough stretching routine I always tell myself I’ll do after exercise—but somehow never do.
My body gets put through a mix of gym sessions, netball, desk work and general running around, yet my usual stretching effort is embarrassingly brief. Having someone guide the movement meant I reached areas I would normally ignore, without forcing anything or wondering whether I was doing it properly.
Some stretches felt easy; others found those tight little spots I didn’t realise were there until someone moved my leg in a certain direction. The movements were controlled and my Flexologist kept checking the pressure, so nothing felt forced. It was active enough that I couldn’t completely switch off and have that nap, but still relaxing.
Why would you go to StretchLab?
According to StretchLab, regular assisted stretching may help improve flexibility and range of motion, reduce muscle tension, support better posture and sports performance, and help you move more freely in everyday life.
For me, the appeal is simpler: most of us know we should stretch more, but we rush it, skip it or repeat the same two stretches we learned in Year 8 PE. It could suit anyone who trains, sits at a desk, feels generally stiff or knows they are hopeless at stretching alone. It won’t turn you into an Olympic gymnast, but as part of a recovery or mobility routine, it makes sense.
The real test: a few days later
I deliberately didn’t write this review straight after my session. Everything can feel fabulous for five minutes when you’ve just done something good for yourself. I wanted to wait a few days, get back to normal life and see whether I genuinely noticed a difference.
And yes, I did feel lighter.
Not in a dramatic “I’ve been given a brand-new body” way, but enough to notice—and enough to make me want to continue. I can see this becoming part of my routine rather than something I only do when my body is already complaining.
The verdict
The session was comfortable, personal and more useful than another promise to myself that I’ll stretch properly at home.
We spend plenty of time pushing our bodies—training, working, carrying things, chasing children and generally racing through life—then treat recovery like an optional extra. It shouldn’t be. We owe it to ourselves to look after the bodies carrying us through all of it.
Would I go again? Yes. I really want to make it part of my routine. Apparently lying on the floor at home for 30 seconds while scrolling Instagram does not count. Rude, but fair.
Where to try it locally
I visited StretchLab Double Bay, with Randwick and Darlinghurst also conveniently located for locals. There are 25-minute and 50-minute one-on-one stretch options available. Wear comfortable activewear and remember that grip socks are required; studios sell them if you don’t have a pair.
Ready to find out how much stretching you’ve been avoiding?
Find a studio or book a benchDisclosure: I was invited by StretchLab Double Bay to experience a complimentary one-on-one stretch. As always, all opinions are my own.
