Hamstring Stretches (continued)

I have two more hamstring stretches, so here they are! 

Downward Dog

This is a yoga position called the Downward Dog; the name actually makes sense because I see dogs doing this all the time! It's a great position, because not only does it target your hamstrings, but it also stretches your back and shoulders. Just follow the picture because it's kind of difficult to explain in words. Here are a few points to keep in mind:

1) Your body should look like a mountain and not a hill. There should be a sharp peak at the top (your butt) rather than a round arc.

2) Try pressing your stomach through your legs. A normal person won't be able to literally do that of course, but working with that goal in mind helps give you a better hamstring stretch. It also helps you create that peak mentioned earlier.

3) Press your shoulders towards the ground. This is what stretches out your shoulders and back.

Standing Lunge

All there is to executing this stretch is doing a lunge and holding it. 

1) Stand normally.

2) Take a step forward (about 2-3 ft. in front of you) and bend your front leg. 

3) To enhance the stretch, keep your heel on the ground and bend your front leg more if you don't feel a pull in your muscle.

This stretch is great for the bottom half of the back of your leg; it stretches your hamstring, achilles tendon, and calf muscles. 

Even more stretches will be coming soon. ;)