The Manique Lilac Myst Strap is a strong, durable, and non-elastic stretching aid, handmade from premium materials to help gymnasts enhance reach, control, and flexibility. Its multiple loops provide superior grip and positioning for a safer, more effective stretch.
Ideal for improving splits, bridges, and shoulder flexibility, this strap allows athletes to safely deepen their stretches and maintain proper form while pushing their limits.
Stretching is essential for gymnasts to improve flexibility, range of motion, and control, all of which are key for skills on every apparatus. A proper stretching routine also helps the body recover after intense training sessions. Gymnasts use both static stretches (held positions) and dynamic stretches (active movements) to target different muscle groups and prepare for high-performance movement.
Using a stretching strap can help gymnasts safely deepen their stretches, improve alignment, and modify positions based on flexibility level. While straps are often associated with yoga, they are just as valuable for gymnasts during cooldowns, active recovery, or flexibility training sessions.
Below, you can learn more about stretching straps, how gymnasts use them, and expert tips to make your flexibility training more effective.
Greater Range of Motion
Gymnasts rely on flexibility for almost every skill, from leaps and jumps to walkovers and splits. A stretching strap helps target tight areas by giving better leverage, allowing muscles to lengthen safely and evenly. Over time, this improves overall mobility and line extension in skills.
Improved Body Awareness
Using a strap encourages gymnasts to move slowly and with control, reinforcing correct alignment and awareness of body position. This is especially important when refining form and preventing overstretching.
Enhanced Technique and Recovery
Stretching with a strap after training helps release muscle tension, reduce soreness, and improve posture, supporting faster recovery and helping prevent injuries between practices or meets.
Hamstring Stretch
This stretch improves flexibility for front splits.
Lie on your back and loop the strap around one foot.
Keep the opposite leg bent or straight on the floor.
Pull gently until you feel a stretch behind the leg.
Hold for 20 to 30 seconds and switch sides.
Quad Stretch
This stretch helps with back flexibility and tumbling power.
Lie on your stomach and wrap the strap around your ankle.
Gently pull the foot toward your glutes until you feel a stretch in the front of your thigh.
Hold for 20 to 30 seconds per leg.
Shoulder Stretch
This is great for bridges, back handsprings, and bars.
Hold the strap behind your back with one arm overhead and the other reaching up from below.
Pull gently until you feel a stretch in the shoulder and chest.
Stop if you feel pain or pinching.
Pike Stretch
This stretch improves form for L-sits, handstands, and beam work.
Sit with legs extended forward.
Loop the strap around your feet and gently pull to bring your chest toward your legs.
Keep your back flat and breathe steadily.
Calf Stretch
This stretch supports better toe point and ankle extension.
Sit with one leg extended.
Loop the strap around the ball of your foot and pull your toes toward you.
Hold for 20 to 30 seconds and repeat on the other side.
Warm Up First
Before stretching, do a light warm-up such as jogging, jumping jacks, or dynamic kicks. Warm muscles stretch more easily and reduce the risk of injury.
Don’t Force It
Stretching should feel challenging but not painful. Overstretching can cause strain and slow progress.
Breathe Deeply
Exhale as you deepen each stretch. Controlled breathing helps your muscles relax and makes your stretches more effective.
A stretching strap is a valuable tool for every gymnast, from beginners to elites. It enhances flexibility, improves control, and supports safe progression in skills that require extreme range of motion. By using a strap properly and consistently, gymnasts can achieve better lines, cleaner form, and greater confidence in every routine.
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