Stretch of the Week: Wide Legged Straddle with Wall Assist

We are still targeting the inner thighs for January’s second weekly stretch. This week’s stretch is called the Wide Legged Straddle with wall assist.

The only thing needed to perform this stretch is some wall space. If you have a groin injury or difficulty getting up and down from the floor, please skip this week’s stretch.

How to perform:

1. Take a seat in front of a wall. Take your legs as wide as you comfortably can with your feet pressed up against the wall as shown in the “Correct Side View” photo. Point your knees and toes up to the sky. Make sure that the soles of your feet are facing out, not pressed into the wall.

2. Press through the heels so your legs remain active. Place your hands right behind your hips and actively draw your belly button toward your spine in order to keep the spine long and tall. You may lean forward toward the wall slightly as long as your back remains flat. You do not want a collapsed chest and rounded back as shown in the “Incorrect” photo. Also notice the incorrect pointed toes.

3. Stay in this position for up to five minutes. Assess how you are feeling as you stretch. You can get closer to the wall as time elapses if you feel the muscles start to relax into the stretch. When finished, place your hands under your knees to support them. Then, scoot backward from the wall and bring your legs together.

Interested in learning more? Email me at rachel.lackowski@athletico.com

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