Hamstring Stretch

A static stretch held after your workout to lengthen the hamstrings at the back of the thigh.

Stretching · Recommended Sets: Hold 30 seconds x 2 reps each side · Hamstrings, Calves

Hamstring Stretch — Points to Check Today

  • Don't round the back; hinge from the hips — Rounding your back pulls only the lower back instead of the hamstring. (Rounding the back to force your head toward your knee)
  • Keep the knee soft; no hyperextension — Locking the knee hard strains the back of the joint. (Bouncing to fold deeper with the knee fully locked)
  • Stop at the pull, not pain — Pushing to the point of pain makes the muscle reflexively contract instead. (Bouncing and pressing all the way until it hurts)

Hamstring Stretch — How to Do It / If You're New

  1. Sit on the floor with one leg extended straight forward and the sole of the other foot against the inner thigh of the extended leg.
  2. Keeping your back straight, hinge from the hips and slowly fold your torso toward the extended leg.
  3. Lightly grasp wherever you can reach (fingertips, ankle, or toes) and stop where you feel a comfortable pull behind the thigh.
  4. Hold for 30 seconds while breathing, then slowly sit up and repeat the same on the other side.