Exercises · upper legs

Standing Hamstring Stretch

A static stretch targeting the hamstring muscles along the back of the upper leg.

upper legshamstringsbody weightbeginnerisolation

Secondary muscles

glutescalves

How to do it

  1. Stand up straight with feet hip-width apart.
  2. Keep knees soft, and hinge forward at the hips.
  3. Lower your torso toward your legs while reaching for your toes.
  4. Stop when you feel a gentle stretch in your hamstrings.
  5. Hold for the desired duration, then return to standing.

Form cues

  • Keep back straight
  • Hinge from hips
  • Avoid locking knees
  • Don't bounce

Common mistakes

  • Rounding the back
  • Locking out the knees
  • Forcing the stretch

Breathing

Exhale as you hinge forward, inhale as you return upright.

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