Lying hamstring stretch
Also called strap hamstring stretch, towel stretch
- Works
- Back of the thigh · hamstrings
- Calves · gastrocnemius and soleus
- Needs
- No equipment
Setup
Lie on your back. Loop a towel or strap around one foot.
Steps
- Straighten that leg up toward the ceiling.
- Keep the other leg straight on the floor, or bent if more comfortable.
- Draw the leg gently toward you until you feel a stretch.
- Hold for the time you chose, then change legs.
Breathing
Breathe slowly. Let each breath out take you a little further, without forcing it.
Where you feel it
In the back of the raised thigh.
Common mistakes
- Bending the raised knee a lot.
- Lifting the hips off the floor.
When to stop
Stop if you feel sharp pain, pain in a joint, dizziness or numbness.
Stop if you feel tingling down the leg.