I recommend using a chair or any sturdy support to ease yourself into this stretch, especially if you have tight hips. Tight hips can be an issue for runners not only because they may cause discomfort but also because they make it more challenging for the glutes to activate, which can affect a runner's power and speed.
- Lower yourself onto your knees in front of a steady support.
- Step your right foot forward, and place your hands on the support for balance. This will help prevent you from placing too much weight on your knee and hip flexors too quickly. Make sure your right knee is directly over your right ankle.
- Begin to slowly shift your weight forward. Try to keep your hips level, with your left hip facing slightly downward toward the floor.
- Allow yourself to find the depth in the lunge, where you feel a stretch in your left hip flexor. Stay in this stretch and breathe for 30 to 60 seconds, then switch legs.
