I’m incredibly excited to have just returned from Arizona, where I spent a power-packed week diving deep into hands-on fascia stretch therapy techniques. Unlike most continuing education courses, which may span a few hours here and there or at best a weekend, this was an intensive 38 hours over five days, culminating months of self-study and preparation.
It was an amazing experience to practice alongside like-minded professionals—physiotherapists, dance coaches, massage therapists, nurse practitioners, personal trainers, and pro athletes—all developing and refining our skills together. The energy was incredible. Not only did I have the opportunity to work on practitioners from all walks of life to elevate my understanding and capabilities, but there was also a strong sense of camaraderie, fostered by an environment of sharing and empowerment.
A Level 4 & Sports Fascia Stretch Specialist
In the world of sports and rehabilitation, fascia stretch therapy is a powerful tool for enhancing performance, preventing injuries, and supporting recovery. Fascia, the connective tissue surrounding muscles and organs, is vital for maintaining mobility, flexibility, and function. Currently, ‘Level 4 & Sports Fascia Stretch Specialist’ is the highest level one can achieve, and as of this month, I am proud to have reached this elite level of expertise in the field.
FST: The Gold Standard
Although relatively new in the field of manual therapies, Fascia Stretch Therapy (FST) has quickly become a standout practice. While massage has been around for centuries and physiotherapy was developed in the late 1800s, FST is the youngest modality, just shy of 30 years old. Fascinatingly, fascia was historically discarded during human dissection and overlooked in anatomy books until recent years. It’s no surprise that fascia stretch therapy is a newer practice, but its impact is undeniable.
Today’s research into fascia—this living tissue—is a hot topic. While its role in the nervous system and its response to both physical and emotional factors are still not fully understood by many doctors and therapists, fascia stretch therapists are at the forefront of integrating this knowledge. FST, with its blend of science and intuition, is pure alchemy for clients and has quickly become the gold standard of the assisted stretching industry. Many practitioners are now moving away from traditional therapies in favour of this powerful modality.
So, Why Levels?
Level 1, 2, and 3 specialists provide essential services in maintaining fascial health, but Level 4 takes it to an entirely different level. Level 1 practitioners focus on foundational techniques aimed at improving general flexibility and mobility. To be accepted into Level 2, practitioners must demonstrate specific proficiencies, and from there, they learn better techniques that allow for greater variety and adaptability in more complex cases. By Level 3, specialists work closely with clients to address specific performance issues and aid in injury recovery. At Level 4, practitioners are equipped to assess and address much more complex fascial challenges, often succeeding where other practitioners have been stumped.
Level 4: The Elite of FST
Level 4 & sports fascial stretch training is the highest level of certification available, placing practitioners in an elite group of specialists worldwide. At this level, we work deeper into the joint capsule, address sport-specific functions, and target the sympathetic nervous system to prepare athletes for peak performance. We also focus on stretching for proprioception, not just lengthening. With new insights—from sacroiliac joint (SIJ) assessment and advanced techniques for the foot and lower legs to address neck issues (as well as working on the neck directly), to techniques for the ribs and spine in sports performance—it’s no wonder this is an exclusive level.
As a Level 4 specialist, I can pinpoint and address deeper issues that may limit an athlete’s speed, strength, or endurance, or contribute to chronic injuries that have resisted other treatments. This level of expertise is particularly valuable when working with elite athletes, individuals recovering from surgery, or those managing long-term conditions.
Globally, there are currently fewer than 25 certified Level 4 & Sports Fascia Stretch Specialists, making it an exceptionally rare qualification. This scarcity highlights the challenge of attaining this level and the high standards of expertise required. I am proud to be the first Canadian to achieve this certification—and the only one in the Ottawa area.
I’m thrilled to bring these new skills back to my clients and community, applying the advanced techniques I’ve practiced to help others reach their highest potential, whether at an elite level in sport or simply striving to live a healthier, pain-free life. I look forward to sharing the benefits of Level 4 & sports fascia stretch therapy with everyone I work with.
Until next time…
~ Breathe ~ Move ~ Unwind ~
