Standing Hamstring and Calf Stretch with Strap
Hinged forward with a band with handles under the balls of both feet, pull the handles up to lift the toes; the calves and the backs of the thighs stretch together.
How to do it
Setup
Standing, feet together, a band with handles under the balls of both feet, hinged forward with a flat back, handles at the knees.
Steps
- Pull the handles up to draw the toes off the floor, heels down.
- Keep the knees nearly straight and the back flat until the calves and the hamstrings pull.
- Hold and breathe, then ease the handles down and stand up.
Common mistakes
Rounding the back to reach the handles: hinge from the hips and hold the handles lower. Knees locked hard: keep them soft. Heels lifting as you pull: the heels stay down and only the toes rise.
Breathing
Slow and even through the hold.
