A new study recently published in a respected scientific journal (The Journal of Physiology) has found that because assisted stretching / stretch therapy makes our arteries more flexible (not just our muscles) it decreases cardiovascular disease risks. The researchers split the study participants into two groups, with one receiving assisted leg stretches from a astretch therapist 5 times a week, while the other did not. At the end of 12 weeks the recipients of the stretch therapy saw improvement in blood flow and dilation of the arteries, in both the upper arm and lower leg. The others did not. This improved blood flow improves risk factors for heart disease, stroke and other conditions including diabetes.
We already know that stretch therapy improves musculoskeletal health, so that we can continue to participate in aerobic and strength exercises that can help improve heart function. Stretch therapy also lowers stress levels, which in turn lower blood pressure. Now there is powerful evidence that stretch therapy has a direct and positive impact on blood flow, lowering cardiovascular risk.
Sources:
https://physoc.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1113/JP279866
https://www.belmarrahealth.com/stretch-your-legs-to-keep-heart-disease-and-diabetes-at-bay/