Lunge Stretch
A long split stance held upright with the hands at the chest, the hips sinking between the feet; the front of the back leg's hip and thigh stretches while the front leg holds.
How to do it
Setup
A long split stance, the back heel lifted, the trunk upright, hands clasped at the chest.
Steps
- Sink the hips straight down until the front thigh is nearly level.
- Keep the back leg long and press its hip forward until the front of it stretches.
- Hold and breathe, then rise and switch legs.
Common mistakes
Front knee pushing past the toes: lengthen the stance until the shin stays near vertical. Leaning the trunk forward: stay upright so the back hip opens. Back knee dropping to the floor: keep it lifted; the kneeling version is another stretch.
Breathing
Slow and even through the hold.
