Standing Advanced Hamstring Stretch

Starting Position Stand tall with back straight, abs engaged, shoulders down, and feet hip-width apart. Bring your left leg forward, heel down, toes up and leg straight. Keeping back straight and abs engaged, bend the right knee as if sitting back, while supporting yourself with both hands on your thighs.

Action Slowly reach forward, bringing your hands towards your left foot as your torso collapses over your straight leg.

Breathe deeply and hold for 10-30 seconds. Repeat on opposite side.

Special Instructions Make sure you master the "Standing Modified Hamstring Stretch" before trying this deeper stretch. Stretch to the point of "mild discomfort," not to the point of pain. Never bounce. Straighten but do not lock the knee of your forward leg. Keep your abs engaged to protect your lower back.

Muscles Stretched: Hamstrings, glutes, back