Kneeling hamstring stretch helps tight, fatigued legs
Working out, training your muscles and keeping your cardio in check is definitely a must for your body and total fitness, but stretching and giving tired/tight muscles some relief is just as important; it definitely works hand in hand.
Our move today is a kneeling hamstring stretch. This stretch is focused on the entire backside of your leg, from the glutes to the calves, targeting the hamstring.
All you need is a flat surface for this stretch.
Begin this movement by positioning yourself on both knees. Hold your chest tall and engage your abdomen for balance. Extend one leg straight out in front of your body and prop it on the heel of your foot. At this point, you can bend in your hips and place your hands on the ground to deepen the stretch and have added balance.
You want to be mindful of keeping the knee slightly soft, even though the leg is extended in a straight position. Stiffening and locking the knee into place could result in injury.
You will feel the tension in the back side of your leg as you push into the stretch.
Remember to breathe deeply and slowly release that breath and try to deepen the stretch slightly more. Even if it is only a centimeter or two, it is progress.
Hold this position on one side for 10 to 20 seconds, or the amount of time it would take you to do at least three deep breaths and releases.
Return to both knees, reposition yourself on the opposite leg and continue this hamstring stretch once again. You can repeat it on both sides multiple times.
This kneeling hamstring stretch is great on its own, but it is also great before and after any cardio exercises or lower-body routines.