Thursday, August 16, 2012

Leg Stretches

The last two posts were about hamstrings, so this one is about stretching the legs in general. There's no specific targeted muscle this time. 

Straddle/Pancake
For this stretch, just sit on the ground with your legs straight and spread out as wide as you can, then lead forward (as much as you can). This stretches your inner thigh muscles as well as your hamstrings.
There aren't any pictures for this, but if you want to stretch your side, all you have to do is sit up with your legs in the same straddle position and lean your body over one leg. 

Split Stretch (3 parts)
Part one
Lie on your back and pull your knee to your chest. This stretches the back of your thigh.

Part two
To stretch your side, pull your knee to the opposite side after completing part one. If your right knee is bent, pull it over to your left side or vice versa.
Part three
Return your knee to the position of part one, and extend/straighten your leg. This mainly stretches the upper half of the the back of your leg.
If you're trying to get your splits by any chance, part one and three are right for you!

Butterfly
This stretch is similar to the straddle, except your knees are bent and your feet are touching. Again, lean over as much as you can. 

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