How to Do a Kneeling Hip Flexor Stretch

How to Do a Kneeling Hip Flexor Stretch
Your hip flexors are located on your upper thighs just below your hipbones. These muscles allow you to bend at the waist and to lift your knees. Stretching your hip flexors prevents both hip and lower back pain. 1 Rest your bottom on your heels, and prop yourself up on you toes on the mat. 2 3 Your left knee should be bent at a 90-degree angle, and your left foot should be directly beneath your left knee as it rests on the mat. Your right knee will still be resting on the floor, and the toes of your right foot will still be in contact with the mat. 4 5 6 1 Exhale, bend your left knee and lean forward. Bend your knee until you feel your thigh come into contact with the back of your calf. Use your left foot to support your body weight while keeping your back straight. Tighten your abdominal muscles to keep your back straight throughout the exercise. 2 You will feel the stretch in your upper right thigh. 3 Inhale and return to your starting position. Push off of your left foot, and keep your abdominals tight at your upper body becomes vertical. 4 Those with balance problems or knee pain should be particularly cautious when performing this stretch. Injury may occur if this stretch is performed incorrectly. Original article and pictures take http://www.wikihow.com/Do-a-Kneeling-Hip-Flexor-Stretch site