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Hamstring Stretch
Strike a Yoga Pose: Head to Knee A
Looking to loosen up inflexible hips and hamstrings? Here's a yoga pose that's a popular stretch among runners because it'll target the oh-so-tight backs of the legs.
Sanskrit Name: Janu Sirsasana A
English Translation: Head to Knee Pose A
Also Called: Flag
To learn how to do this forward bend variation read more
Strike a Yoga Pose: Intense Side Stretch
For all you runners and bikers with tight hamstrings, this is the pose for you. It's one of my favorite stretches to target the backs of the legs, but it'll also give you a nice stretch on the sides of your body, as well as your chest and shoulders.
Sanskrit Name: Parsvottanasana
English Translation: Intense Side Stretch Pose
Also Called: Scissor
To learn how to do this pose read more
Strike a Yoga Pose: Quarter Dog
If you love the way Downward Facing Dog stretches out your hamstrings, calves, and lower back, but don't love the wrist pain the pose can cause, then here's a variation to try. With your forearms on the ground, the quarter dog variation takes the weight out of your hands and wrists. Even though this pose seems relaxing, it's not as easy as it looks.
Strike a Yoga Pose: Split
Not too many people are born being able to do a full split, so after you try these stretches to help open your hamstrings and hips, give this pose a try.
Sanskrit Name: Hanumanasana
English Translation: Monkey Pose
Also Called: Split
For step-by-step instructions read more
Chef Workout: Elevated Hamstring Stretch
In between cooking and doing dishes, I love to take a few minutes to stretch in the kitchen. Here's a move that will stretch your hamstrings and lower back. You'll need a stool for this stretch.
Partner Yoga Pose: Forward Bend Lounge
Tight hamstrings and lower backs are common complaints among runners, office workers, and people who are on their feet all day. Doing forward bends regularly can help tremendously, but doing them on your own just isn't as effective as when you can get some help. I've already showed you how to do Seated Butterfly Lunge and Seated Straddle Lounge, so here's another variation to try.
Partner Yoga Pose: Twisting Seated Straddle
When I need a good hamstring stretch, Seated Straddle is one of my faves. To feel an even deeper stretch in the backs of my legs, I like to do this pose with a friend as in Seated Straddle Lounge. If you liked that one, here's another variation to try.
Strike a Yoga Pose: Standing Split
If you're looking for an effective way to stretch the backs of your legs and hips, give Standing Split a try. The best thing about this pose is that you can focus on one leg at a time. It's also a great pose to work on if you want to strengthen your sense of balance.
Stretch It: Legs Up the Wall
Ahh, I feel relaxed just looking at this picture. If you feel stressed out, depressed, or have a splitting headache, give this a try. Not only will it instill a sense of calmness, but it'll give you a slight release in your lower back and a stretch for your hamstrings.
5 Easy Hamstring Stretches
Are the backs of your legs tight? It is important for the health of your back, hips and knees to keep your hamstrings flexible. Here are five easy stretches for you to use as you lengthen the muscles on the back of your thighs.
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