right thigh for balance and support (see Figure 6-4). Keep your shoulders
down and relaxed; don’t round your lower back. You should feel a mild pull
gradually spread through the back of your leg. Repeat the stretch with your
right leg forward.Keep in mind the following tips as you perform the standing hamstring
stretch:Keep your back straight and your abs pulled inward to make the stretch
more effective and to protect your lower back.
Don’t lean so far forward that you lose your balance or feel strain in
your lower back.Photograph by Sunstreak Productions, Inc.Standing quad stretch .........................................................................
This stretch focuses on the quadriceps (front-thigh muscles). Be extra gentle
with this stretch if you’re prone to knee or lower-back pain. If back pain is an
issue for you, you can do a similar stretch while lying on your side, bending
your top knee, and bringing your heel toward your buttocks.Figure 6-4:
The
standing
hamstring
stretch
targets your
rear-thigh
muscles.
Chapter 6: The Scoop on Stretching 75