Achieve greater range of movement, become ‘less stiff’, improve posture and feel better.

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Chris Nicklin is a certified Personal Trainer with over 7 years' experience, and the owner of Nxtep Personal Training. Chris qualified from Edge Hill University with a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in Sports Coaching and Performance Development, and has delivered over ten thousand one-to-one Personal Training sessions.

Updated 28/9/2022

Most people are unaware of their posture as it has developed subconsciously over a period of time. Any repetitive action will cause an imbalance and changes in posture and movement patterns. This could lead to limited mobility, chronic pain and long term health problems if not addressed.

 

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Patrick SmithPatrick Smith
06:47 05 Jun 24
Joined Nxtep under the 6 week transformation plan and had great results. Chris is a great PT with plenty of experience and skill.
Sarah RaoSarah Rao
07:30 30 May 24
A EA E
20:41 07 May 24
The “personal trainer” at this establishment is very unprofessional and will fat shame people. I do not recommend you will be judged.Edit: No email was left to contact. Leave an email so we can discuss further thank you.
Paul CorriganPaul Corrigan
12:26 10 Mar 24
Sadly I'm leaving the area and would love to take Nxtep with me. I attend the small classes. Chris has created a unique venue that would be hard to match anywhere. The environment is warm and friendly. The sports science work that Chris does behind the scenes to prepare the classes is immense, so that we don't have to worry about it. Just plug and go. Though education is always at hand if required. The classes can be hard work (results driven) but always fun. The equipment is of the highest standard. I've always been around sports but have never experienced anything so positive and rewarding. At 57 there is no way I would ever have thought I'd lift such heavy weights or complete these vigorous exercises. Chris gets you there incrementally and safely but always with great humour. He uses a truly interactive App that plots your progress. A fitness App that actually works, who knew!!Also the clients are lovely and incredibly supportive of each other. Well bloody done Chris!
Aidan McGearyAidan McGeary
07:50 27 Feb 24
Over the past alomost 3 years, Nxtep has been central to my personal growth. Chris and his clients make up a fantastic community of people who have helped me develop in many ways. No one lifts a single kg on my behalf or runs a step for me, but as part of a positive and nurturing environment I have been able to consistently, week in, week out, exceed my expactations of what I am capable of. The Physical and mental benefits I have experienced since being a part of this community have been game changing and I owe them a great deal. Aidan.
Alana McgladeAlana Mcglade
17:44 20 Feb 24
Chris has been absolutely amazing at supporting me on my fitness journey. Everything is tailored to the individual so it suits everyone no matter what stage you're at. There's a really supportive environment that I haven't experienced elsewhere and the flexibility Chris has shown to me when needed has been amazing. Would never go anywhere else now!
Ashleigh PattersonAshleigh Patterson
20:07 18 Feb 24
CHRIS AND LUCA YOU ARE AMAZING AT WHAT YOU DO.At one point i couldnt walk up the stairs... after been hospitalized and locked in a room for nearly a month at pinderfields I was diagnosed with severe asthma to been under observation for COPD at 30 years old and still living everyday with it now, I decided to make a change. I moved to Cheshire I joined @nxtepknutsford and in a matter of months I was competing at @turfgames with the gym familyI cannot thank everyone enough who has been on my journeyNow at 32 I can lift 110kg on a deadliftI can run .... some sort of distance and always improving as much as my lungs will carry me.Never give up and push to be betterWe saw. We came. I conquered! 🏆
Steven ThompsonSteven Thompson
07:40 15 Feb 24
The model works for me , small group of less than 6 with a dedicated trainer . Have used gyms for many years but this model works for me . Complete professional instruction at all times . All about correct technique and protecting back etc . Plus there is no escape - maximising every session and getting maximum benefits . A real community approach .
deborah walkerdeborah walker
10:08 12 Feb 24
Always a great session with Chris .Come away feeling fab
Iain FountainIain Fountain
12:04 06 Feb 24
Have been training regularly each week since October at Nxtep and just wanted to give some feedback on my experience which has been nothing short than excellent. Chris, Luca and the team have provided one and one expertise, techniques, dietary plans to help with weight loss, build lean muscle and improve fitness. Can’t shout their praises enough. Good job Nxtep.
Hannah ThrelfallHannah Threlfall
14:10 10 Nov 23
I signed up for the 6 week body transformation initially to help me get my pre baby body back after gaining a lot of weight through pregnancy. I lost 8.6kgs in the 6 weeks and have since renewed my membership to continue with my progress and I’m almost down 10kgs in total only 2kgs away from my pre pregnancy weight. I have always hated going to the gym and would dread going initially but now I am 8 weeks in, training 3x per week and feeling fitter and much happier in myself it is something I definitely want to continue. I feel it has really changed my lifestyle and I am making healthier choices everyday with a much more positive outlook, my family have commented that the old Hannah is back as before I felt I’d lost myself since becoming a mum for the first time. Chris and Luca are incredibly knowledgeable about anatomy which was very important to me after having a C-section and I have seen huge improvements in my core and lower back stability. I am also enjoying the new friends I am making from the sessions and never thought I’d say it but I’m looking forward to continuing the training long term and being in the best shape of my life!!
Katie MorrisKatie Morris
08:05 15 Sep 23
I've really enjoyed the community at Nxtep. I've never been this thrilled get up before 7am to attend the gym. Chris and Luca are brilliant and I feel I've come so far in the year since I started coming. Looking forward to more progress and the pride that comes with working hard
Lesley SneesbyLesley Sneesby
08:04 15 Sep 23
Thank you Chris and Luca for your amazing help, guidance and support in such a welcoming environment at Nxtep
MerelMerel
15:47 03 May 23
I initially joined Nxtep to get a better grip on my fitness levels after yo-yoing for years with sporadic classes and runs. It was an excellent decision as the sessions are three times a week which quickly got me in a good rhythm. Chris and Luca are both fantastic and very patient with a newbie like myself who had never lifted weights before. They have really helped me understand fitness and weight lifting a lot better. They also adjusted any exercises based on my capabilities as I had an injured shoulder for a while, and with the rehab exercises they gave me that’s now back to normal. I can’t recommend Nxtep enough!
CharlotteCharlotte
15:38 04 Aug 22
I've been working with the guys at Nxtep for about a year now; I originally joined thinking it would be a short-term thing to lose weight for my wedding.A year later and I'm married, 12kg lighter than when I first started, lifting much heavier weights and am in much better shape in general. Chris and Luca have been amazing with my training; they always challenge me to try new things and to push further, which is really helpful for someone who's training has always seemed to plateau in the past.They've also taught me about health and fitness as a lifestyle; there's so much more to it than lifting some weights or constantly being on a diet, and they always keep things new, fun and flexible. They're also really helpful and approachable guys; I've messaged them lots of times to ask for training tips and advice when I'm going to the gym outside of training hours, and they're always more than happy to help.
Jackie KingJackie King
19:38 17 May 22
I first met Chris in January 2020. I was 12 weeks pregnant with my first child. As a trained dancer, and teacher I was hoping to maintain my levels of fitness whilst minimising the risks of my pregnancy. My early dance training concentrated on training my limbs, while often neglecting my ‘centre’ or ‘core’. It wasn’t until a back injury in 2012 due to weak lower back muscles that my approach to training changed. When I first found out about my pregnancy, I worried about my back and how to keep it strong.Chris helped me through my pregnancy teaching me safe ways of keeping my core strong, helping with my postural alignment as well as addressing some muscular imbalances that I wasn’t aware I had. Most importantly, Chris gave me the confidence to continue training through pregnancy. I knew I was in safe hands. Chris is phenomenally knowledgeable in how our bodies work.May 2022, I am currently pregnant with my second child and still continuing to train with Chris at Nxtep. Luca has also joined the team and is a fantastic addition. They are a great team, and I am very lucky to be trained by them both. I would highly recommend anyone thinking about pre or post natal pregnancy training to consider Nxtep.
Sean WSean W
12:09 02 Apr 22
Before starting at Nxtep I would go through a cycle of starting to get fit, injuring my back, then avoiding exercise for fear of making it worse. The same happened when I started here, with my over eagerness to improve leading to the same old injury. Chris and Luca kept me motivated and coached me through the recovery process, allowing me to strengthen the areas susceptible to injury and enabling me to carry on where I’d previously have given up. Now I’m lifting ~100kg more than when I first started and the past few years of persistent back injury seem a distant memory. The guys have helped me with my nutrition, my outlook and overcoming what I previously thought I couldn’t. I can’t thank them both enough!
Paul KennedyPaul Kennedy
22:59 05 Nov 21
I’ve been working with Chris and the team at Nxtep, and the initially just wanted to get stronger and fitter somewhere local when the gym near work was no longer an option due to the pandemic. I know feel really confident handling weights and my diet. I recently saw myself in a film from before I started at Nxtep and other people couldn’t recognise me from me who didn’t know me well so, it definitely works! Highly recommended.
Jordan CraigJordan Craig
20:45 05 Aug 21
Training at Nxtep during Covid was tricky but Chris and Luca made it work! Started with training outdoors in the carpark before we were allowed to move indoors, it was always fun and I feel I made real progress.It never felt just like a business and always felt more caring, I was also doing it as part of my DofE to which Luca/Chris were very helpful with.I've had to stop due to other focuses in life but I've got some real fond memories of the time and am hoping to go back later if I can!
ryan unwinryan unwin
20:29 28 Jul 21
Great personal trainer, his sessions are great and really push you into great mindset to achieve your goals, great knowledge of the body aswell! Would definitely recommend!!
David VDavid V
17:54 22 Oct 20
Wanted to improve all round fitness especially strength and conditioning so contacted & met with Chris.....was very impressed with his approach and was motivated to getting started & looking forward to the challengeChris was fundamental to me in making the nutrition and exercise changes required to achieve goals.... inspiring, motivational, encouraging & supportive he is great to work with......regular tracking & updates help me to stay focused..... Chris is easy to get along with and the sessions are challenging but enjoyable.....
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What is Flexibility Training?

Flexibility is key to a healthy body and a happy life. Unfortunately, many people don’t know how to get more flexibility in their lives, or have reduced flexibility and/or mobility due to injury or illness. That’s where flexibility training comes in.

Flexibility training is a type of physical activity that helps people who either which to improve their existing flexibility and mobility, or help those who have problems with their joints move more easily and with less pain.

There are different types of flexibility training, but the most common is based around different types of stretches. Stretching can help improve range of motion (the range of motion available to a joint), which can help reduce the amount of pain felt in the joint.

Improve your posture, balance and co-ordination

Optimal postural position will ensure long term health of the spine and joints of the body, thereby enabling you to live the life you want to lead, whether it’s to improve sports performance or simply feel less stiff. Your initial consultation will include an assessment of both your static posture and movement patterns. Any identified postural deviation and movement dysfunction will be addressed by applying corrective strategies within your programme.

These will help to:

  • Reduce tension and discomfort
  • Prevent injury
  • Improve balance and co-ordination
  • Increase body awareness
  • Reduce strains and risk of progressive deformity
  • Avoid downward spiral of activity
  • Improve quality of life and well-being

At Nxtep, your trainer places great importance on improving movement patterns, exercising using the correct technique and promoting good posture. We ensure that you exercise efficiently, understanding which exercises to include and which to avoid dependent on your assessment.

flexibility training

What Causes Poor Flexibility?

There are a variety of reasons why people may have difficulty with flexibility and movement, including tight muscles, arthritis, circulation problems and previous injuries. However, the increasingly sedentary lifestyle we often lead these days is also a big factor in reduced flexibility.

In order to improve flexibility, it is important to identify the source of the problem and then address it through specific exercises and stretches. In addition, proper strength exercises and conditioning training can help increase range of motion and reduce the risk of injury.

If you are looking for improved flexibility, Nxtep can help. Our flexibility and mobility training programme will help you to stretch and strengthen the muscles around your joints in a safe and effective way. You can also try some of our flexibility exercises at home to help improve range of motion. Give us a call today and let us help you get started!

 

Why Is Flexibility Training Important?

Flexibility training is important for people of all ages because it helps to maintain good joint range of motion (JROM), which can help reduce the risk of injury. In addition, flexibility training can also help to improve overall circulation, relax the muscles, and relieve stress and tension in the body.

Flexibility Training Methods

There are generally two types of flexibility training methods: static and dynamic. Static flexibility exercises involve holding a position for a certain amount of time, while dynamic flexibility exercises involve moving through different ranges of motion. It is important to choose an appropriate type of flexibility exercise for your own individual needs and goals. For example, someone who wants to improve their posture may benefit from static stretching exercises, while someone who wants to reduce pain or inflammation may benefit more from dynamic stretching exercises.

Flexibility Training Benefits

Flexibility training can improve your overall physical health. It can help you to be more mobile, less prone to injuries, have a stronger spine and better posture. Additionally, on the mental health side, as with many types of exercise, flexibility training can help you to better manage stress and anxiety. Flexibility training can also reduce the risk of chronic pain, arthritis, and other conditions, in addition to increasing your energy levels and mood.

There are many benefits to flexibility training, including:

1. Improved joint range of motion

2. Increased agility and balance

3. Reduced risk of injury

4. Better posture and alignment

5. Improved sleep quality

6. Improved mood and well-being

7. Increased energy levels

8. Enhanced self-confidence

9. Weight loss benefits

 

mobility & flexibility training

 

What Type Of Training Is Best For Flexibility?

There is no one type of training that is universally effective for everyone. Instead, different types of flexibility training are better suited for different individuals. The most effective type of flexibility training depends on the person’s fitness level, age, and other physical abilities.

Some people prefer static stretching exercises that involve holding a stretch for a specified amount of time. Other people may prefer dynamic stretching exercises, which involve moving the body through a series of stretches while maintaining tension. There are also yoga-based flexibility exercises that can be used to increase range of motion in various joints.

The most important thing to remember when trying out different mobility workout routines is to listen to your body and keep an open mind about what might work best for you.

As part of your in-person consultation and initiation at the gym, your personal trainer will examine your range of movement and discuss any existing or historical injuries or illnesses with you. They will then create a bespoke personal training programme created especially for you and your body, to improve your mobility without pushing you too far and risking injury or aggravating past injuries.

What Kinds of Flexibility Equipment Are There?

There are many different types of flexible equipment available on the market today, so it is important to choose one that will provide you with the best results. Some popular options include foam rollers, stretching bands and resistance bands to more sophisticated equipment like the TRX system. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to find the right tool for your needs. Some common types of flexibility equipment include:

Stretching bands

These are simple devices made from elastic material that you can use to stretch your muscles. They’re easy to use and can be stored away easily, making them a good option if you want to keep your training portable.

TRX systems

This type of equipment is designed specifically for flexibility training. It consists of a series of straps that hang from the ceiling or walls and can be used to stretch various muscle groups in your body. The straps are very versatile and can be adjusted to create a wide range of motion.

Plyometrics

This type of training involves jump exercises that help improve flexibility and explosiveness in the muscles throughout your body. Plyometrics also increase strength and stamina, which makes them an ideal addition to any mobility workout routine.

How To Do A Flexibility Training Session

Flexibility training is a great way to improve your range of motion and reduce your risk of injury. By signing up to a bespoke personal training programme at Nxtep, you will be guided through every flexibility training session by a highly trained and extremely experienced professional personal trainer, who will have created a routine especially for you and your body to help you avoid injury and help you to build your flexibility limits safely over time.

However, you can also supplement this with training at home. To get the most from your home training, make sure to follow these tips:

Flexibility training is a great way to improve your range of motion and decrease the amount of pain you experience. Make sure to do a session every week to see the most benefits.

But the best way to get the most out of flexibility training is to start a personal training programme specifically designed to aid and improve flexibility and mobility. Our flexibility training sessions usually last about 2 hours, and you should expect to do between 10 and 15 repetitions of each stretch.

To start, your personal trainer will help you get into a comfortable position. You’ll then do the stretch for the target muscle group, holding the stretch for 30 seconds before moving on to the next stretch. You’ll continue doing this until all of the stretches in the session have been done.

stretching to improve flexibility

15 Great Flexibility Training Exercises

Reclining Stretch

  1. Start on your back with bent knees and flat feet.
  2. Cross right foot over left thigh and bring legs to torso.
  3. Don’t overwork it – allow gravity to pull the legs in to deepen the stretch.
  4. Reverse and repeat.

Forward Lunges

  1. Get down on your left knee and bring your right leg forward so that it forms a right angle.
  2. Lunge forward while maintaining a straight back position. It should feel like there is a stretch on the left side of the groin.
  3. Keep holding for the next five seconds.
  4. Perform the action three to six more times.
  5. Perform the exercise on the other leg.

Standing Quad Stretch

  1. Maintain your balance by leaning against a chair or wall while you do so.
  2. Bring the foot around to the buttocks by pulling it. Make an effort to keep your knees together.
  3. Keep holding for the next five seconds.
  4. Perform the action three to six more times.

Standing Hamstring Stretch

  1. Stand tall, feet hip-width apart, knees slightly bent, and arms by your sides.
  2. Exhale as you bend forward at the hips, lowering your head toward the floor while maintaining a relaxed head, neck, and shoulders.
  3. Wrap your arms around the backs of your legs and hold from one to two minutes.
  4. When you’re finished, bend your knees and roll up.

Lunge With Spinal Twist

  1. Feet together to start.
  2. Stagger your stance by advancing your left foot.
  3. Bend your left knee and lunge, keeping your right leg straight behind you with your toes on the ground.
  4. Twist your upper body to the left while extending your left arm to the ceiling.
  5. Hold for 30 seconds.
  6. Reverse and repeat

Frog Stretch

  1. Begin on all fours.
  2. Spread your knees wider than shoulder width.
  3. Turn your toes out and place your inner feet flat on the floor.
  4. Reposition your hips toward your heels.
  5. If possible, move from your hands to your forearms for a deeper stretch.
  6. Hold for for 30 seconds to 2 minutes.

Lying Pectoral Stretch

  1. Lie on your stomach with both arms stretched out to the sides, forming a T shape with your body.
  2. Push up from the ground with your left hand and bend your left knee for balance. This should be felt in your pectoral muscles on the right side.
  3. You’ll be able to stretch and roll your body further as your mobility improves.
  4. Repeat on the opposite side.

Cross-Over

  1. Get into a cross-legged stance while standing with the feet relatively close together and the legs completely straight.
  2. Attempt to touch your toes.
  3. Keep holding for the next five seconds.
  4. Perform the action three to six more times.
  5. Repeat the process with the other leg.

Glute Bridge Stretch

  1. Lie down on your back with your knees bent and your feet about hip-width apart on the floor.
  2. To help flatten your back and avoid overstretching, gently tighten your stomach muscles.
  3. Then, as you push your hips up toward the ceiling, tighten your glute muscles.
  4. Hold for a few seconds and then do it again.

Standing Hip Flexor Stretch

  1. Bring your left foot forward and your right foot back to form a split stance.
  2. Drop your back knee and tailbone an inch closer to the floor, and tuck your pelvis forward slightly.
  3. Maintain a neutral spine. Make sure your back isn’t arched or rounded.
  4. Hold for a moment before repeating on the other side.

Chest and Shoulder Stretch

  1. Either sit or stand – you can do this in either position.
  2. Put your hands behind your head and interlace your fingers with bent elbows.
  3. Squeeze your shoulder blades together and gently move your elbows backward.
  4. To affect different parts of your shoulders and chest, move your hands to the top of your head (or a few inches above your head).

Pretzel Stretch

  1. Place your head on your arm while lying on your left side.
  2. Bend your right knee and hip as far as you can toward your chest, then release it to the ground.
  3. Bend your left knee and use your right hand to reach for your left foot (or a strap if you can’t reach it).
  4. As you lower your top shoulder blade to the floor, keep your leg and torso in a straight line.
  5. Turn your head to look over your right shoulder for a stronger spinal twist.

Seat Straddle Lotus Stretch

  1. Sit down with the soles of your feet together and your knees pointing toward the floor.
  2. Push the knees toward the ground with the forearms on the inside of the knees.
  3. Lean forward from your hips.
  4. Hold the position for five seconds.
  5. Repeat the process three to six times more.

Butterfly Stretch

  1. Sit on the ground or on a mat with your feet together and your knees bent to opposing sides.
  2. Hold your feet with a straight spine
  3. Then slowly lean forward and gently press your thighs downwards with your elbows until you feel a stretch along your inner thighs.
  4. Hold the position for 15 to 30 seconds.

Cobra

  1. Lie down on your stomach with your hands flat on the floor, exactly under your shoulders.
  2. Point your toes and stretch your legs behind you.
  3. Lift your chest and drive your hips into the floor as you exhale.
  4. Take cautious not to raise your hips by extending your arms too much.
  5. For 15 to 30 seconds, stay in this posture.

opening hips to improve flexibility

FAQs

How can flexibility training reduce the risk of back pain?

Flexibility training can help to reduce the risk of back pain by improving the strength in your core and back muscles. This can help to relieve pressure on your spine, which can reduce the risk of back pain. Flexibility training can also help you to move more easily and effectively. This can reduce the amount of stress placed on your back, which can reduce the risk of back pain.

Does weight training increase flexibility?

Yes, there is evidence to suggest that weight training can increase flexibility, which can be improved through weight training by increasing muscle strength and size, which in turn will make it easier for the individual to move their joints through a wider range of motion.

Why can’t I touch my toes when I stretch?

When you stretch, your muscles lengthen and become more flexible. However, not everyone can touch their toes when they stretch because their calf muscles are too tight. To increase your flexibility, you can try to do stretches that target the calf muscles without stretching the toes. For example, you can lie on your back with your feet flat on the ground and lift one knee towards your chest. Or you can do a Standing Calf Raise by placing one foot in front of the other and lifting them towards your bottom.

Why are my legs not flexible?

There are many reasons why someone’s legs may not be as flexible as they would like them to be. The most common reason though is that the muscle tissue in the legs is thick and bulky. This can make it difficult for the muscles to stretch properly, which can lead to stiffness and reduced range of motion. However, there are a number of exercises that can help to improve flexibility in the legs. Dedicated flexibility personal training programmes will include stretching exercises targeted at the calves and hamstring muscles, and other forms of exercise such as Pilates and yoga are all good ways to increase range of motion and reduce stiffness.

Why are my hips so inflexible?

There are a few possible causes for inflexibility in the hips, including genetics and previous injury. Muscle imbalances can also lead to hip inflexibility, as can tightness or imbalance in the surrounding muscles and ligaments. Flexibility training can help to improve hip mobility and range of motion.

Does drinking water help with flexibility?

Yes, drinking water can definitely increase flexibility. Drinking water may enhance flexibility by hydrating soft tissues such as fascia and muscles, as well as joint cartilage. Dehydration causes the fascia to tighten, decreasing the muscle’s capacity to move and contract. Dehydrated cartilage also loses its lubricating ability, resulting in decreased flexibility and range of motion.

Can you become flexible at any age?

Yes, there is no age restriction on becoming more flexible, as long as you are willing to put in the effort. Flexibility training can be done at any time, but it is especially beneficial for people who suffer from joint pain or stiffness. The key to successful flexibility training is gradual and consistent progress. If you are new to flexibility exercises, start with simple stretches and work your way up to more challenging exercises.

Which foods increase flexibility?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the foods that increase flexibility will vary depending on the person’s age, muscle mass, and other physical characteristics. However, some popular foods that have been shown to increase flexibility include: legumes (such as beans and lentils), seeds (such as poppy seed and sunflower seeds), vegetables (such as cucumbers, squash, and carrots), fruits (especially berries), water, and yoga.

Which vitamin is good for flexibility?

There is no one-size-fits-all response to this query since the ideal vitamin for flexibility varies according to age, exercise level, and other health concerns. Some experts, however, propose adding certain vitamins and minerals into a person’s diet in order to increase flexibility. Magnesium, copper, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids are examples of these nutrients. Several B vitamins may improve muscular flexibility and may lower the incidence of osteoarthritis. Vitamin B Complex, as a whole, is required for the creation of serotonin and other neurotransmitters. These hormones aid in the prevention of depression and are responsible for converting food into the energy required to power your workout.

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