Rebuilding Shoulder Health
Tips for Overcoming Subscapularis Pain Shoulder pain can slow you down, whether reaching for something on a high shelf...
Read PostOver the past two decades, many experts have advocated prolonged stretching up to 60 seconds. A prolonged stretch up to 60 seconds means that a person would move into a stretching position...
Read MoreThese strengthening exercises are designed to isolate and strengthen targeted areas. This work can only be successful with a program of active isolated stretching (AIS) prior to...
Read MoreStretchingSA can now offer a fully comprehensive program specifically designed for each and every patient’s personal needs. Our new state of the art technology together with amazing...
Read MoreThis is a FREE service that we offer you. However, we will always advise you to see a stretch therapist before commencing any of these exercises. Home exercises are suitable for the...
Read MoreStretchingSA specializes in stretch therapy and was founded by Hans de Wit in 2005. Active Isolated Stretching (AIS) and Active Isolated Strengthening are the two major components of our field.
Stretch therapy was developed over the past 55 years by our pioneer and inventor of this technique, Aaron L. Mattes. Mattes is the founder of StretchingUSA, StretchingSA is a close affiliate of this organization, and carries the values, principles and techniques as being taught by Aaron Mattes.
StretchingSA is the only company in Africa having an affiliation with StretchingUSA, and is the only organization capable of teaching, supporting, and building stretch therapy on our continent. Over the past years, we have developed a complete franchise for individuals interested in pursuing a career in stretch therapy.
Find out the latest news about StretchingSA and information about all your health-related needs.
We are always happy to hear what you have to say so be sure to leave a comment.
Read More NewsTips for Overcoming Subscapularis Pain Shoulder pain can slow you down, whether reaching for something on a high shelf...
Read PostLateral Epicondylitis, commonly known as Golfers’/Tennis’/Swimmers’ and recently, Padel Elbow is a common condition...
Read Post1. Seated Posture • Feet Flat on the Ground: To promote stability, keep your feet comfortably supported. • Knees...
Read Post
Lizette-Marie Breytenbach
Listen to what Lizette-Marie Breytenbach has to say about StretchingSA.
Chairman Phobians Running Club
Listen to what the chairman of the Phobians Running Club has to say about StretchingSA.
Mary
After being diagnosed with right knee medial tibial plateau insufficiency fracture with a background of osteoarthritis medial meniscus and posterior root tear and varicose veins, I've been attending StretchingSA Pretoria East every week and have found such a difference even after a few sessions - pain has now gone and I can only say it is amazing the amount of increased motion I now have!
Duené Munger
My knees were swollen and in pain after 'Om Die Dam Ultra 50km'. I've tried Crossfit, physiotherapy and biokinetics, and although it helped, I just couldn't get rid of the pain. Thanks to AIS stretch therapy and in particular trigger point release done by Monica from StretchingSA Roodepoort, I've been able not just to finish the Comrades 2023, but also improved my PB by 30min with hardly any serious pain or niggles!
Francois Blom
I worked closely with a physiotherapist and later, a biokineticist and performed all exercises given to me daily. I got stronger but still struggled with pain, flexibility and movement which meant that my hips and back took strain to accommodate my unnatural way of walking. I met with Ryno at StretchingSA and after a couple of months, I regained the full range of movement in my ankle and calf muscle.
Heather
Lenka was incredible at relieving the discomfort in my feet in our session. It got me up and running again super quickly and has kept the condition under control since. I would highly recommend Lenka for any ankle/foot-related issues especially if you’re looking for someone to not just treat symptoms but underlying causes.
Ampie
Ever since my weekly stretch routine, I have been much more flexible and not so stiff after music gigs, golf, tennis, squash and paddle tennis. I would recommend Carla Swart from StretchingSA Pretoria East!
Grahame Gertsch
Having tried various therapies without success, I discovered StretchingSA and Ryno van den Berg. His methods were patiently delivered, methodical, and scientific – and they have worked. I am back to running.
Gideon Scheepers
With persistent treatment, we went from barely being able to open the hip due to intense pain and tightness to being able to open fully with barely any discomfort.
Pierre Jean Marais
We started with stretching and soon I could feel a difference. When I began the treatment, I could not reach my toes bending forward. After each treatment, I could bend a little further. Today I can confidently say that I can touch my toes even before having warmed up a bit.
Mariska Munnik
Carla was professional and friendly and after a brief session with her, I was hooked. I started going to regular weekly sessions and can report that my lower back pain is gone.
StretchingSA Roodepoort Stretch Class
Attending the stretch classes on a regular basis has been one of the best things I could have done for my body and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who needs to improve their posture and take care of hardworking muscles.
Willem Hart
I am now approaching my 10th session with Carla and every week I could experience the increased range but also the depth of the stretch, reaching deeper lying muscles that would otherwise never get activated. I just love the extra range, mobility, and flexibility I gained.
Isolde Boezaart
I am thankful to Ryno for his professional help and sensitive way of helping patients. I am convinced that we have achieved the objective of at least deferring further possible surgical interventions.
Lukas de Waal
For the first time in a long while, I started to believe that my injury could be treated without getting an invasive procedure. Thank you Ryno from StretchingSA Pretoria East not just for the treatments but also for your positive input into my life!
Clive Green
I am sold on STRETCHINGSA...I will never go back to a chiro or physio for such issues...I highly recommend them! Thank you Gary at StretchingSA Centurion!
Alice Hutchinson-Keap
I suffer from jaw clenching and often struggle with general stiffness. Lenka has been amazing in helping relieve tightness and making exercising easier! I cannot recommend her enough. Knowledgeable, professional, and kind.
Deidre Schoeman
There was no reason to feel nervous about going to Lenka for a stretching session. Lenka has the ability to listen to your body. Therefore, she will never push the body against its will but also knows when to push harder so the muscles can relax and the body can heal.
Richard Hall
Absolutely amazing session. Lenka is incredibly kind, patient, and professional. I saw her after moving house when my back, neck and shoulders were in complete agony, and she sorted me out in just one session. It was the best money I have ever spent.
Dex Kelly
I sustained a shoulder injury after a fall. In the 1st session, StretchingSA (Lenka Van Wyngaardt) identified the precise nature of the injury. After 4 weekly sessions, I regained full use of my shoulder.
Sheralee Bosman
I was introduced to Lenka, she has been stretching all my muscles and joints for the past couple of months now, I have my swing back, I can get up and down easier and I can work all day in my garden.
Susie Aguiar
It only took 5 sessions to achieve this result, with minimal effort on my part with exercises at home. I now go for a once-monthly “maintenance” stretch (this is my choosing) as we do a whole body stretch and I feel 15 years younger when I leave!
Jolyon Melville
Competent, knowledgeable, diligent, firm and yet gentle. Everyone who requires rehabilitative therapy deserves to have one such as she! Lenka you have made a world of difference to my damaged body, and soul. I’m very grateful to have found you.
Pierre Gouws
After only a few sessions, I noticed an improvement that continued weekly. About 4 months down the line I sometimes must stop and think which hand was painful as I no longer experience any discomfort.
Mari McLeod
I went to Ryno at StretchingSA Pretoria East Moreleta Park. It was by far the only treatment that made a difference. Although the treatments were not without discomfort, the relief afterwards and the progress that was made was worth it.
Catharina Basch
I'm extremely grateful to Ryno, not only for his services but also for his motivational words and encouragement during each treatment. I'm convinced that I am stronger than ever thanks to his help.
Estelle Changuion
After trying out many other options to address a potential neurological issue causing pain in my left foot, I discovered stretch therapy from StretchingSA. We’re not 100% there yet, but I have found much relief and can enjoy long walks in nature again!
George Nel
Within a few weeks, I have seen and experienced the most amazing changes through regular stretch therapy. I would gladly recommend stretch therapy for everyone as it is natural and definitely aids in the recovery and daily functioning of one’s body.
Tswinyane Gregory Motlalehi
One of my friends recommended I see Hayley from StretchingSA George. After just two sessions with Hayley, my pain was gone and I managed to run my long distances again pain-free.
Janine Nicholas
I encourage you to read up on the benefits of StretchingSA’s stretching techniques and how they can benefit you. I am into my 7th treatment session and WOW what a difference in my symptoms and overall muscle condition.
Bronwyn Ward
I have been seeing Hayley for 2 months now and can feel the progress that I have made over this time. I have found that the AIS Stretching has helped me gain strength in my lower back and the constant discomfort and aching has eased tremendously.
Magdel van Rooyen
Monica and stretch therapy changed my life! I can feel that every session makes a difference. Monica is an amazingly kind and friendly stretch therapist who has never pushed me beyond my pain levels. I can only thank Monica for how much the quality of my life has improved.
Pieter van Emmenis
I saw Ryno from StretchingSA Pretoria-East (Moreletapark) for a 30-minute session and by stretching out the correct muscle fibers, I immediately experienced relief. I can happily confirm, that my leg has recovered completely.
Santie Grobler
I started with Ryno and at first, I must say I thought it was an unsuccessful solution. But I stayed and gave it time. The results were up and down but it did not seem to work as I was still in pain. Now for 2 weeks, I am without pain and this is all due to Ryno's hard work and treatments!
Matt Nortjé
I started seeing Ryno a few months ago and my life has only improved since. Not only can you see the difference in your training, but in your day to day life as well. Being more flexible allows you to be more effective in every aspect of your life.
Mark Bojara
StretchingSA is an absolute must for any sports, mobility, or even old unattended injuries. If you are committed to dedicating time for recovery, you will heal! I know I speak from someone who thought they would have to live with pain for the rest of their life. It does change, it just needs hard work.
Annette Steenekamp
Then I found Stretching SA, this treatment started to work after only a few treatments. I started to experience permanent mobility in my knees again. After only 3 months of two sessions a week, I could walk normally and are pain-free.
Karen Joubert
After 3 months of treatment, I can testify that my lower back pain has been treated successfully. From now on, I will visit Ryno once a month or even every second month in order to maintain the flexibility of my muscles. I am truly grateful for Ryno and StretchingSA.
Adriaan Fourie
I have been seeing Hayley for the past 2 months now every week. I can feel and see a huge improvement in my training at the gym and in my running. I feel lighter on my feet and the stretching has made my running a lot easier. It has also helped keep me injury-free.
Ruben Burger
Since I’ve been seeing Hayley on a weekly basis, I’ve broken 12 South African records across 2 bodyweight categories and it all boils down to one simple difference...the strengthening work, treatment or injuries and postural alignments she has done over the last couple of months.
Dewald van Tonder
I was so impressed that I brought my daughter along; she was struggling with a serious knee injury. Hayley’s assessment was spot on, her treatment even better. With every session, the stretching becomes easier, so much so that I am actually looking forward to my next session
Alma Lategan
From my first session with Hayley I could feel a difference in my body. Less stiffness and less pain. My body feels lighter after a stretch session with her. She also makes a lot of effort to get to the core of the problem and is always friendly, caring and willing to help. I am always looking forward to my next stretching session!
Deon Fourie
Within the 1st week, I knew I was in the right place! I would recommend stretching therapy to anyone and especially to athletes who are serious about their sport! Keep it injury-free, get yourself a stretch therapist! Get Haley she's really one of the best I've worked with.
Siphokazi Soka
Within completing the 5 sessions I have seen major improvements; my leg mobility has strengthened to the point of forgetting I even had surgery. I have made a full recovery and slowly back to where I was. Thanks to Louretha for all the sessions which have changed my life.
Annette Maranta
After 6 months my lower back improved with 80%. Stretch Therapy changed my life. 18 years of pain started improving within months. I can’t wait to feel the end result. I would recommend Stretch Therapy for anyone with chronic pain and structural problems!
Mark Sydney
I came to see Hayley for a full-body stretch and never felt better. I am not very flexible, but Hayley managed to get me into unheard-of positions, which helped heaps. Hayley is a great therapist and will take good care of anyone no matter the problem, wherever she practices.
Trudie Strydom
Within 3 months of treatment, the results were remarkable! Since then I have consulted Ryno for various other treatments for my hip and lower back and I'm astounded by the remarkable improvement after each session. Truly a Stretch Therapist I can recommend!
Armand Van Der Merwe
Flexibility is not only necessary for a better range of motion and movement, but a hidden jewel to any rehabilitation, prevention and cure program. Active Isolated Stretching, Strengthening and Balancing is definitely the way of the future from the injured patient to the sports person.
Dewald van Heerden
Then I discovered Ryno van den Berg at Stretching SA. After 4 sessions I could feel and see a difference in my throwing technique and my hamstrings are a lot more flexible. I can touch my toes now, which was something I could never do before.
Michka Reynders
The first session already resulted in major pain relief and by week four, I had my old self back. It’s great to know that should I ever experience something similar, StretchingSA will be there to assist. I can strongly recommend Ryno and StretchingSA.
Karen Joubert
After 3 months of treatment, I can testify that my lower back pain has been treated successfully – I only have some pain when I’ve had a tough day standing for long hours but other than that I know I have found the correct treatment. I am truly grateful for Ryno and StretchingSA.
Carina Nel
From my own experience, I can, with great confidence, recommend Ryno as a very professional and helpful therapist, as well as the stretching technique, that focuses on stretching the surrounding muscles and ligaments in order to improve mobility and decrease pain.
Carina Elliott
After 5 sessions I no longer had the numbing pressure of lower back pain, after 10 sessions my lower back pain had almost completely disappeared, and after 15 sessions where we are now, I am able to do an acrobatic trick involving my back.
Jeanette van Tonder
I would strongly recommend Stretch Therapy to anybody struggling with not only stiffness but inadequate mobility of the joints and pain. The Stretch Therapy didn’t only help me regain my suppleness, but also strength and confidence to move and get my arm back into top form. Thank you, Ryno!
Trevor Gaw
When we called for appointments he didn’t hesitate to come over to our house and started treatments right away. I was blown away by his professionalism and friendly approach to his patients and truly can recommend him as a practitioner that will spend a lot of time and effort on each and every patient he will ever see.
Pieter van Emmenis
I picked up an Injury when I was 21 years old, on the Rugby field, in my left leg. For 15 years I struggled with spasms and pain in all areas of my left leg from the upper thigh to the calves. Thousands of hours with different medical methods and options were perused with no improvement at all.
Nico Noeth
I believe stretch therapy should be incorporated into everyone’s lives as I have never felt so supple and flexible as to when I started practicing with Louretha. Stretch therapy has helped to increase my suppleness, it has definitely improved my extension with all joints; so I can concentrate more on my golfing and better improve my swing.
Karen Ferreira
Beste Louretha, hiermee net ‘n klein gebaar om dankie te se vir jou ondersteuning, hulp en aanmoediging deurentyd met my behandeling! Ek het begin by jou met ongelooflike erge pyn, maar ek voel deesdae soos ‘n nuwe mens!
Carla Human
Louretha Jacobs did an evaluation and said she could help me with stretch therapy. Louretha was always very professional and friendly and she continuously encouraged me. Although progress was slow and the sessions were sometimes painful I could see progress after about four weeks. I would highly recommend stretch therapy.
Bianca & Annika Strydom
We, Annika and Bianca Strydom are Biathle athletes (swimming and running). We came first and second for consecutive years. We have attended physiotherapy and stretching sessions with Louretha for injuries for a few years. She is very knowledgeable about her profession and very helpful with information around the injuries...
André Verster
I would like to take this opportunity to share with you how StretchingSA (AIS) has been beneficial to me and how much it has helped my life and injuries. I used to be a rugby player and went on with normal conditioning on the field and at a gym. I have been struggling with nerve pain down my arm since I can remember.
Adel Loubser
Ek kan nie genoeg beskryf hoe strek terapie Aidan so vinnig laat herstel het nie. Louretha Jacobs was uiters professioneel en deeglik, sy het ook vir Aidan rehab huiswerk gegee om sy maagspiere te versterk wat self ‘n groot verskil gemaak het aan die herstel van sy rugspiere.
Mr W van Aswegen
This is when I discovered StretchingSA and I contacted Ryno van den Berg. I have been going to StretchingSA now for 2 treatments per week for about 3 months and WOW! Last month was the first time in the last 14 years that I were without any pain for 3 consecutive days and then I had a whole week without any pain!
Marthin Linde
I have yet to reach the optimum level of a pain-free life but we are well on our way in achieving this, however, I cannot translate in words, the relief of pain and spasms I have experienced since starting treatment with Ryno at StretchingSA. I can only thank Ryno for the effort and work he has done and continues to do for me.
Armin Cilliers
I cannot thank Ryno enough for the past few weeks and the sessions I had with him. After each session, I was amazed by his knowledge about the body and the effects his treatment had on my body. The pain was gone after three sessions with him and the pins and needles have faded.
Rudy Paige
SA Rugby Player
If you surround yourself with the right people, anything is possible... Surround yourself with only people who are going to lift you higher... People who are going, to be honest with you and look out for your best interest, thanks StretchingSA for being part of my team!
Robert Whitehead
StretchingSA helped me through an intensive Stretch Therapy rehabilitation program. My Joint range of motion, stability, flexibility, strength, and balance improved drastically. I’m so fortunate to have the cause of my problem been taken care of with no pain anymore.
Ria Neethling
As a Stretch Therapist, Ryno is treating my injured knee. My joint range of motion, flexibility, strength, and balance improved drastically. I sleep without pain. Getting in and out of a car is not an effort anymore. It is possible to use stairs in a normal way without pain. I started doing needlework again. I am so fortunate to be treated by Ryno.
Pieter Van Zyl
Game Farmer
I want to stretch how impressive this unique form of rehabilitation is for me, seeing that I have tried so many different forms of treatment and nothing ever had the wonderful results that I am experiencing right now. Any athlete with frequent spasms or injury that gives them trouble should go to no other place. Book your sessions now!
Louise van Staden
When I walked out of my first session with Hans it literally felt like I had been given a new pair of legs and a new back, my first session felt like a miracle cure. I see Hans on a weekly basis and it’s the only thing that keeps me going. StretchingSA has improved my quality of life; I am completely pain-free and have been pain-free for 3 full months.
Liezel Vermaas
I’ve been struggling with my shoulder (rotator cuff) since October 2014. I’ve experienced a lot of pain and discomfort especially when I sleep at night. I went for two sessions with Ryno van den Berg the Stretch Therapist. The pain and discomfort stopped completely. My rotator cuff is completely healed.
Kitty Potgieter
After having a full knee replacement at the age of 63 I was left with one new very sore and extremely stiff knee and one old, painful and stiff knee. The doctors were not happy with my recovery but soon after I was referred to Ryno and StretchingSA, my life changed. Today I can enjoy my new knee and the days of being in constant pain...
Johan Els
Premier League Cricket Player
I went to StretchingSA and since I have been there my si-joint has recovered and improved and I can bowl again without any discomfort. I can definitely recommend Stretching SA for anyone moving with discomfort and struggling with their mobility. I got more out of Stretching SA than I hoped for. A big thanks to Ryno and Stretching SA!
Jaco Maartens
Estate Agent
Stretching SA helped me recover from an injury I had for decades and the methods and maneuvers been used was focused on my problem area and not a generic one solution for all approach. Thank you, Ryno, for helping me back on my knees again. I will recommend this approach to improve, recover or support all levels of athletes...
Ina Els
Hip replacement
One morning two months ago I woke up with severe pain again, decided to make an appointment with Ryno the stretch therapist, and the decision was made to go for stretch therapy. After 12 rehabilitation sessions, I was pain-free…I could walk for longer distances, sit for longer periods of time at the office...
Francois Hougaard
SA Rugby Player
I prefer working with my man Hans at StretchingSA, making sure I'm stronger and faster than ever… especially good in getting some work done with stretch therapy before my big games. Thank you guys for always helping me being the best I can be.
Dr Org Strauss
Team Doctor Bulls and Blue Bulls
Hans de Wit has been working with the Bulls and Blue Bulls players for the past two years. Hans is a stretch therapist and he has made a big difference in our system with regards to recovery and prevention of injuries. Hans definitely had a big hand in all the success we had the past few years.
Dr Nico Goosen
M.Tech. Chiro.
It is with great pleasure that I recommend Hans de Wit. Hans is an excellent Stretching Therapist and consists of all the skills needed to treat his patients successfully. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact me.
Dr Claire Meekel
M.Tech Chiropractic
I have had the pleasure of working with Hans de Wit whilst on assignments abroad, treating top VIP clients and patients. Although a true expert in his field, Hans is gracious and shares his knowledge and skills generously. He exhibits outstanding skill and knowledge and exudes a passion for improving the lives of others.