Hurdler’s Stretch

This is one of my favorite stretches. Start on your hands and knees as in the Bridge, but put the left foot in front of the right knee, with the heel touching the knee.

Stand up with both feet on the same line and pressing through your fingers. Fully engage both legs, holding the knees straight. Most of your weight will be on the left foot. Hold the position for one to three minutes.

Extending and fully engaging the legs from the floor may not be possible for everyone. If you find this stretch too difficult, you can perform this stretch with your hands placed on a chair or stool instead.

Repeat with the right foot in front of the left knee.

Stand up with both feet on the same line and pressing through your fingers. Fully engage both legs, holding the knees straight. Most of your weight will be on the right foot. Hold the position for one to three minutes.

The Hurdlers Stretch engages the entire body in opening the hips and creating a foundation for your internal martial art practice.