Leg-Up Hamstring Stretch

Also called lying hamstring stretch, supine hamstring stretch and leg up stretch.

Works

Hamstrings

Equipment

Bodyweight

Level

Beginner

Type

Isolation

How to do it

Setup. Lie flat on your back, bend one knee, and put that foot flat on the floor to stabilize your spine.

1. Extend the other leg in the air. If you're tight, you wont be able to straighten it. That's okay. Extend the knee so that the sole of the lifted foot faces the ceiling (or as close as you can get it).
2. Slowly straighten the legs as much as possible and then pull the leg toward your nose. Switch sides.

Cues

• Other foot flat on the floor.
• Lift one leg toward the ceiling.
• Straighten the knee slowly.
• Pull gently toward your nose.

Common mistakes

• Lifting the hips.
• Forcing a straight knee.

Where to start

A starting point, not a law. Pick a weight you could lift two or three more times than the top of the range. When every set hits the top of the range, add a little weight.

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