Facilitated Stretching

Explore complex PNF techniques with video demonstrations.

For more than 30 years, Facilitated Stretching has been the most-trusted resource for proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching, an effective and easy-to-use method that involves stretching the muscle, contracting it isometrically against resistance, and then stretching it again to increase range of motion.

The fifth edition includes updated daily flexibility sequences, new partner stretching routines, and new facilitated stretches and variations with photos and video. Positioning Tip sidebars offer guidance on making stretches comfortable for clients. The full-color interior is packed with hundreds of photos and illustrations to make visualizing stretches easy. Online videos demonstrate more than 100 of these stretches to reinforce proper technique for each stretch; there are also videos showing four sample stretching routines.

As in previous editions, specific routines are included for cycling, golf, running, swimming, ice hockey, and pickleball. The text also includes general stretches for everyday use, plus stretches for those with “rusty hinges.” These ready-made stretching routines make it easy to incorporate facilitated stretching into a workout regimen and take the guesswork out of organizing a stretching routine to match the needs of a specific sport.

Facilitated Stretching, Fifth Edition, provides guidance in the latest PNF stretching techniques to help assess current muscle function, improve range of motion, increase strength, address overuse injuries, and enhance performance.

Earn continuing education credits/units! A continuing education course that uses this book is also available. It may be purchased separately or as part of a package that includes all the course materials and exam.

Note: A code for accessing online videos is included with all print books.

Author Biography

Robert McAtee, BA, LMT, BCTMB, has been a sports massage therapist since 1981, specializing in sports massage and soft tissue therapy, with significant clinical experience treating people with injuries and chronic pain. His clientele includes Olympic and professional athletes, dancers, performers, and recreational athletes as well as countless patients suffering from soft-tissue injuries.

Since 1988, McAtee has owned Pro-Active Massage Therapy, an active, international private practice in Colorado Springs, Colorado. In addition to his private practice, he is approved by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB) as a provider and is a sought-after presenter throughout the United States and internationally on the topics of facilitated stretching, sports massage, and soft-tissue injury care. He is board certified in therapeutic massage and bodywork and has been an active member of the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) since 1988.

McAtee received his massage training at the Institute of Psycho-Structural Balancing (IPSB) in Los Angeles and San Diego (1981-1982) and the Sports Massage Training Institute (SMTI) in Costa Mesa, California (1986). He holds a BA in psychology from California State University (1974).