Stretch of the Week: Side Lunge Shin Stretch

For the third week of our shin series we will be performing a Side Lunge Shin Stretch. You will feel this stretch in your inner thigh muscles as well as in the muscles from the bottom of your knee to the top of your foot.

Please skip this week’s stretch if you have difficulty getting up and down from the floor. Consult your doctor before performing if you have a history of any knee or ankle injuries.

How to perform:

1. Come to a kneeling position on the floor with your hands on your hips. You can place a blanket or yoga mat under your knees for more support if you desire. Extend your left leg out to the left side as shown in photo 1. Your left foot and right knee will be in line. Make sure your right foot is directly behind your right knee as well.

2. Straighten your left leg and press your left foot toward the floor like you’re pressing a gas pedal, as shown in photo 2. Then relax your foot and leg to the starting position.

3. Repeat this “pumping” action with the foot five times and then hold the stretch with the foot pressing down for a count of 30. Relax the leg, come back to the kneeling position and repeat on the other side.

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

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