What Is the GYR (Green, Yellow, Red) Stretching Framework?
GYR — Green, Yellow, Red — is CNU Stretch's proprietary client-communication framework for assisted stretching. During each stretch the client answers with a color: Green means comfortable and ready to go deeper, Yellow means at the edge of tolerance, and Red means stop. It keeps every stretch at the edge of useful intensity without tipping into protective tension.
What each color means
Green — go deeper.
The stretch feels comfortable and the client is ready for more.
Yellow — hold here.
The client is at the edge of their tolerance; this is the working zone.
Red — stop.
Release immediately. Nothing is gained by pushing past it.
Why it matters
- Prevents the most common mistake in assisted stretching: pushing past the nervous system's threshold and triggering a protective response that undoes the work (NCBI StatPearls: the stretch reflex).
- Removes the awkwardness and language barrier new clients feel — three words anyone can use.
- Makes sessions consistent between therapists and locations.
- Gives the therapist real-time feedback to progress each stretch safely.
How a therapist uses GYR in a session
At the start of each stretch the therapist checks in. While the client is Green, the stretch deepens gradually; at Yellow the therapist holds and lets the tissue settle; at Red they release. GYR works alongside the AIS assessment: the assessment decides where to work, GYR decides how far to go.
GYR vs. a pain scale
A 0–10 pain scale asks a client to rate pain. GYR asks a simpler question in the moment — keep going, hold, or stop — so the client never has to translate a sensation into a number mid-stretch.
Where it came from
Evans Armantrading Jr. developed GYR at CNU Fit in 2022. It is now used by every CNU Stretch-certified practitioner across 48+ partner locations.
Who learns it
GYR is taught on Day 1 of the CNU Stretch Level I & II in-person intensive, together with the AIS assessment.
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Frequently asked questions
What does GYR stand for?
Green, Yellow, Red: go deeper, hold at the edge, stop.
Is GYR a pain scale?
No. It's a real-time tolerance check during each stretch, not a pain rating.
What happens if a client says Red?
The therapist releases the stretch immediately.
Why not just ask "how does that feel?"
Open questions get vague answers mid-stretch; three fixed words give the therapist a clear, instant signal and make new clients comfortable speaking up.
Who developed GYR?
Evans Armantrading Jr., founder of CNU Stretch, at CNU Fit in 2022.
Where can I learn it?
In CNU Stretch certification — GYR is taught on Day 1 of the Level I & II in-person intensive.