Most of us consider stretching pre and post workout pretty normal for keeping the body in check.
But did you know that stretching is an exercise too? Which is why many people invest in a stretch machine.
Several disciplines (Like yoga, martial arts, or rehabilitation) have included stretching in their daily exercise routines as it strengthens and improves flexibility and muscle function.
If you’re ready to incorporate stretching into your daily workout routine or need to for rehabilitation purposes, here is my recommended list of the best stretching machines to buy.
Best Stretching Machine
Precor 240i Commercial Series StretchTrainer
- Features an ergonomic design and a sturdy and very stable frame
- 5-year frame warranty, 2-year parts warranty
- Maximum weight capacity of 250 pounds
- Cushioned knee pads and comfortable seat
- Not large and easy to store
The Precor 240i’s comfortable design makes daily stretching a lot easier.
It comes with an instructional placard that shows you the best movements and poses to do in order to get the most out of the machine.
It also has a mobile seat, knee pads, and different handle options to accommodate for a maximum stretch regardless of your height and body type.
What customers are saying
Everyone says this machine works great for hamstring stretches and is a suitable alternative if you don’t want big stretching machines in your home.
It is made with sturdy materials, it’s quite easy to use which is why the majority of people who bought this product are very satisfied and leave excellent ratings.
Favorite Back Stretcher
Valor Fitness CA-32 Back Stretcher Machine
- Solid, durable, and extremely stable stretcher machine
- Adjustable handles with padded grip (5 positions)
- Features a safety stretch strap to prevent falls
- Comfortable seat and knee pads
The Valor Fitness CA-32 looks similar to the Precor model but it’s sold at half the price.
It helps you stretch your upper back, legs, hips, hamstrings, glutes, groin, quadriceps, shoulders, and other muscles but it doesn’t come with a manual that shows you how to use it.
This is why we recommend purchasing this machine only if you know what to do with it or you’re willing to learn all the exercises.
Other than that, this is a great buy, and for an affordable price, you’ll get an easy to assemble, sturdy piece of equipment with adjustable handlebars.
What customers are saying
Customers love the price and quality of this machine, and they have nothing but praise for its sturdiness and adjustability.
Some people have complained that it was a little heavier than expected, but that’s probably one of the reasons it’s so solid and resistant.
Best Split Stretching Machine
ProFlex Split Stretch Machine
- Features a degree chart to help you track your progress
- Ergonomically made to improve your technique and spinal angle
- Suitable for medical applications or athletes who need to improve flexibility
- Manufacturers guarantee a 30-50% increase of body flexibility in 30 days
- Easily assembled and can be stored in an upright position
- 3-year warranty
Split stretch machines are excellent, not only for seniors who want to regain mobility but also for martial artists and other athletes who want to achieve a higher level of flexibility.
We consider the ProFlex Split Stretch Machine the best split stretching machine on the market because it has a very wide range of mobility.
It also helps you track your progress and measure your current stretching level with an easy-to-follow scale, this is an interesting feature you won’t find in other models.
What customers are saying
Customers say the ProFlex split machine stretches both your upper and lower body and it will definitely increase your flexibility if you complete your sessions.
It has helped relieve back pain in some cases and has improved physical performance in others.
Some customers have complained that there aren’t enough instructions and exercises included in the purchase, so you will have to search online for more ideas.
Best Inversion Back Stretcher
Teeter FitSpine X3 Inversion Table
- Extra-long ankle lock, very secure and comfortable
- Traction handles to provide extra stretching in an inverted position
- Excellent range of motion and easy to control
- Easy assembly and 5-year full warranty
- User weight capacity of 300 pounds
If you’re searching for a device to stretch your back muscles and reduce both muscle tension and back pain, you will probably like the idea of an inversion table.
The Teeter FitSpine X3 is one of the best inversion tables on the market because it moves easily and gives you full control of your position.
It also has additional features such as a lumbar bridge and acupressure nodes that will help you maintain a proper posture and focus on key trigger points to relieve back pain.
What customers are saying
The reviews on this product are amazing. Customers love its excellent design and say that every part of the machine is built with high-quality, incredibly comfortable materials.
This inversion table is proven to reduce muscle tension and improve back pain plus it can be adjusted for different heights.
The assembly is quite easy, but it might be a bit heavier and larger than expected, so be sure to evaluate the size and weight.
Favorite Stretching Station
True Stretch Professional Station
- Gym-quality equipment
- Sturdy and stable
- Wide space to perform all types of stretching exercises
- Multiple bars and grip positions for a wide variety of stretching exercises
- Instructional board with exercise ideas
You’ve probably seen one of these stations in a space at the gym, as they are an excellent start or end to any weightlifting or cardio exercise.
This model is a professional level station and has everything you could possibly need to perform the most extreme or basic stretch exercises.
It’s very sturdy and stable and comes with a chart that includes many exercises for each body part.
What customers are saying
This item doesn’t have many reviews but they’re definitely worth paying attention to.
Customers are very satisfied overall and say that if you follow the instructions on the chart, you will get amazing results.
The True Stretch professional station even reduces the muscle soreness you’d typically get after completing resistance exercises.
The only issue is the price, which is too high for some people. But if you have the budget and space, it would be an excellent add-on to your home gym.
Favorite Hamstring Stretcher
IdealStretch Original Hamstring Stretching Device
- Specially designed for calves, hamstrings, back, and knees
- You can perform your exercises lying on the floor instead of bending
- Light steel frame with heavy-duty and very durable construction
- Easy to transport and store
If you don’t have much space at home, it’s very likely you won’t be interested in bulky equipment.
In that case, this device is perfect for you. The IdealStretch stretching device can be effortlessly stored and easily transported to your outdoor activities.
It includes stretching guidelines that give you the knowledge you need to use it on a daily basis and helps you achieve full stretches on your hamstrings, calves, back, and knees.
It is also fully adjustable, and you can change the position of the knee strap based on your height.
What customers are saying
So many people report a reduction in knee pain, improvements in bursitis flare-ups, and a decrease in muscle tightness when using this stretch machine.
The sturdiness and portability are seemingly the main features customers like, but some people consider the device a bit too pricey.
Other Recommended Machines
Valor Fitness Leg Stretcher & Split Flexibility Trainer
If you’re trying to achieve a total split, this trainer is probably what you’re looking for. It is similar to the ProFlex split stretcher mentioned above but has a few key differences.
Unlike the ProFlex which works on both your upper and lower body, this one works only on your legs and doesn’t have a vertical pole to increase flexibility in your back muscles.
Nevertheless, the Valor Fitness Leg Stretcher & Split Flexibility Trainer is still perfect for reaching the 180-degree split many martial artists are looking for in their disciplines.
What customers are saying
According to customer reviews, this machine comes almost completely assembled and is more affordable than most other models on the market.
It is extremely solid and can definitely help you reach your flexibility goals.
Some people have complained about the wheels getting stiff sometimes but that problem can easily be solved by using grease or WD-40 oil to facilitate spinning.
Nitrofit Limber Pro Stretch Machine
This is another alternative to the Precor and Valor Fitness models above.
The design and functions are very similar but this model includes an instructional display with 9 illustrated exercises.
It also has an adjustable seat to accommodate different body types, a calf station with support bars, and a pair of wheels for easier storage.
What customers are saying
People say this product is very helpful for those with bursitis, muscle pain, and other health problems.
The NitroFit Limber Pro an interesting add-on to your daily workouts and works very well for seniors, it’s also a great option to consider if you’re on a budget and want a high-quality stretch trainer.
Motive Fitness TotalStretch Back & Body Stretching Machine
Specially built for home use, this stretch trainer has everything you need to start your total-body stretching routine.
It is similar to the total stretch trainer above with multiple grip handlebars and a comfortable footrest to stabilize your legs.
You can perform standing or seated stretches on this machine, and it comes with a transport wheel to move it around easily.
What customers are saying
There aren’t many customer reviews, but what we see so far is very good.
People say this model offers pretty much the as same others but at half the price.
The machine is sturdy, doesn’t wobble, and has comfortable cushioning. One of the only complaints reported is that the back pegs can be a bit tall for some individuals.
Century Leg Portable Stretching Machine
If you’re looking for a split stretcher you can carry around with you, this one is perfect.
It is very similar to the Valor Fitness model discussed above, but it won’t give you a vertical pole or handles for back stretches.
However, it can still help you progress in your 180-degree splits and has a comfortable cushioned seat with ankle support.
After placing your legs in the ankle support, you can easily stretch by pulling the cable.
When it’s not in use, it won’t take much space and provides the same benefits as others in a smaller size.
What customers are saying
Customer reviews on this machine are excellent. The machine is simple to install and very easy to use.
The only complaint reported is that the leg holders can feel a little uncomfortable for some.
Still, the functionality for the price is excellent, and it is a good unit to try if you have limited space.
DCT Proflex Lower Body Resistance Stretching Tool
This is an excellent device if you’re looking for a hamstring and calves stretching machine.
It is very portable and easy to use plus it features a simple shoe-like structure where you strap your feet, attach a leverage strap to the other end and pull.
It targets not only your leg muscles but also your ankles and the arch of your feet.
You can get it in small, medium/large, or extra-large sizes, and it is one of the best items on this list in terms of portability and space-saving design.
What customers are saying
There aren’t many ratings on this product but customers who have reviewed it so far speak very highly of the product.
Many customers are satisfied and have reported flexibility improvements in their hamstrings, hips, calves, and glutes.
Remember to look at the measurements and make sure they are appropriate for you, especially if you have small feet.
CoreStretch - Adjustable Upper and Lower Back Stretcher
Stretching your back is sometimes a part of rehabilitation therapy, and if a back stretcher is all you need, you won’t make full use of complex devices.
The CoreStretch Adjustable Back Stretcher is focused on your back and uses the natural traction of your body to reduce muscle tension and improve flexibility in your back muscles.
You can adjust the handles to three levels according to your body type and stretching capacity. This stretcher is collapsible, lightweight, and fully portable.
What customers are saying
Most reviews on this stretcher are very positive with some customers reporting a significant improvement in back pain after using the device for some time.
Even patients with arthritis and bursitis have said that they feel better after a few sessions of rehab therapy with the CoreStretch.
However, there were some complaints stating that this is not the most sturdy piece of equipment and it won’t lock your sideways movements when stretching.
Still, it is a good way to start and helps you achieve excellent stretches for your latissimus dorsi muscle as well as lateral trunk muscles.
