The Prostretch is a high quality calf stretching device offering the user a deep controlled stretch to one or both calf’s simultaneously.
There are many different options for calf stretchers on the market. We take a closer look at this one.
The device appears solid and durable supplied on this occasion in blue. Calf stretchers come in many different sizes and styles some are simple in their construction whilst others more professional and durable.
First Impressions
In the Prostretch review I will look at one of the latest innovative fitness product from Medidyne based in Colleyville, Texas. The Prostretch is a device for providing a smooth controlled stretch to one, or both calves, if using the Prostretch double device. There are many different calf stretchers on the market of varying quality. What set’s the Prostretch aside?
What’s in the box?
Shipped by mail order the device comes wrapped in see through cellophane. The Prostretch is 30cm wide from heel to toe area and 10cm and weighing in at 2kg, the device feels solid and robust. The top is ribbed so your shoes don’t slip off easily and the curved bottom has a strip to prevent the device from slipping when being used.
So how does it work?
The concept of a calf stretcher is pretty simple, it works by the user placing there foot or feet on the footplate and roll gently backwards to provide a stretch specifically to the calf and lower leg. You should always do a warm up before using this device, it is ideal for post exercise stretching. The movement can be done a number of times to improve calf flexibility. There is a handy instruction manual and free DVD with the pro-stretch double, which can also be purchased separately. Have a look at the Youtube clip below for a basic idea.
Who is the Prostretch for?
Whilst aimed at the sports therapist, physiotherapist and personal trainers, the device can easily be used by the public as it is provided with full instructions.
It has a recommended weight limit of 20 stone or 165 pounds. We do recommended that people undergoing rehabilitation from a calf or lower leg injury take guidance from a sports professional as you wouldn’t want to injure yourself further.
If your suffering from tight calf’s or want to get a deeps calf stretch the Prostretch is for you. If you want to save time then you may want to consider the Prostretch double.
Whilst the Prostretch is a simple device it needs to be looked at like any other piece of gym equipment, it’s only useful if used regularly.
When testing the Prostretch for this review I found it useful to put it next to my shoe rack so when I finished my morning run I just jumped on and did 5-10 slow repetitions before taking my trainers off, this avoided me just throwing it in a cupboard and forgetting about it like so many other devices.
It’s also a good idea to be next to a wall to steady yourself when using it. The only downside is that it did get a bit dirty in the winter months, but being plastic it was easy enough to wash off under the tap.
Prostretch Pro’s & Con’s
Pro’s
- Solid and sturdy
- Easy to keep clean
- Deep calf stretch
- Non slip sole
Con’s
- Relatively expensive
- Only one leg at a time (unless you buy the double)
- Only comes in blue (classic version)
Where can you buy the Prostretch?
Prostretch is available from many online fitness and physiotherapy stores, some of the best value for money include:
Summary
The Prostretch single is a high quality premium calf stretcher. Ideal for the amateur and professional athlete alike, Easy to use and keep clean it enables the user to get a deep controlled stretch every time.