I'm a Former Gymnast, and These Are the 12 Stretches I Still Do For My Splits

If you're really feeling up for a challenge, pull your leg as far forward towards your chest as it can go (without hurting yourself, of course). Make sure your lower leg — the one resting on the floor — stays on the floor.

• Lie on your back. Raise your left leg as high as you can, keeping your pelvis flat on the ground. Hold your lower thigh and encourage the leg to move toward your head. Flex your foot to stretch your calf too.
• To deepen the stretch, place a yoga strap or towel on the ball of your foot and use your hands to pull the strap toward you. After 30 seconds, switch legs.