Your hip flexors are responsible for a number of movements that you likely do without thought—walking, bending, or climbing—that is, unless they are tight and causing you some discomfort. Like with any other muscle in the body, stretching them regularly can help make life easier and more pleasurable, not to mention that it can also make your exercise sessions easier and more effective.
Here are just a few hip flexor stretches to consider adding to your daily routine:
- Kneeling Stretch. To perform this stretch, kneel on your right knee. Keeping your back upright and straight, slowly lean your hips forward until you feel a stretch in your right hip area. Hold for a count of four and return to the starting position before switching to the other side.
- Hip Raises. Lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet firmly on the ground. Your arms can either be placed along your sides or extended out beside you. Slowly lift your hips off the floor until your back is straight, hold for a count of four, and then return to the starting position.
- Swing Stretch. Lie on your left side, with your left knee slightly bent and your right leg raised to hip level. Slowly swing your right leg forward and back as far as you comfortably can. Switch to your right side and do the same.
- Seated Butterfly Stretch. Sit on the floor with your back straight and shoulders back. Bend your knees out to the side and bring the soles of your feet together so they are touching right in front of your body. Slowly lower your knees as far as you comfortably can, hold for a count of four, and then return to the starting position.
Perform these stretches regularly and you will enjoy greater range of movement in your hip area. What types of stretches do you like to do for your hip flexors? Share them in the comments below!
