By
on May 28th, 2021 in Stretching When your hamstrings are tight you can really feel it. This large muscle group is what keeps you moving day-to-day allowing you to walk, run and jump your way through life. If your hamstring muscles are tight, you will want to ensure you are doing effective stretching to help loosen up those muscles so you can feel great and crush your next workout.
At Grants MMA & Boxing Gym, we know how important it is to be stretching both before and after your workouts to ensure optimal performance and to prevent injuries. Your hamstrings are important muscles that play a vital role in your ability to participate in the things you love such as boxing classes and other forms of exercise. Our expert instructors are committed to helping you achieve your athletic goals safely. See our favourite hamstring stretches below and try incorporating different stretching options into your routine.
Our Favourite Hamstring Stretches
Learning how to stretch hamstrings is thankfully simple. There are many effective options when it comes to stretching your hamstrings and you can pick and choose between which option you like best and feels good for you. Consider trying different options to target your hamstrings effectively, every time.
Standing Bend – if you’ve ever tried to touch your toes from standing you’ve likely already done this stretch. From a standing position, bend at the waist allowing your hands to float towards or touch your toes. Depending on your flexibility level, turning your toes upwards may provide a deeper stretch.
Seated Bend – this stretch is similar to a standing bend but is simply completed in a seated position. With your legs straight out in front of you, bend at the waist attempting to match your fingertips to your toes. Turning your toes upwards can help you to deepen the stretch if you are flexible and need a little more to get a deep stretch.
Hurdler Stretch – while you are seated try out this next stretch by pulling one foot in resting it on your inner thigh. Bend forward at the waist as if lowering your head to your toes, do not strain your neck to do this. By pulling one leg in you isolate your hamstring to achieve a deep and effective stretch.
Seated Stretch with Resistance – to complete this stretch consider using a towel or scarf to achieve the needed resistance. In a seated position place your folded towel or scarf across your feet while holding on to either end of the towel. Lift your leg up, allowing your hamstring to be isolated through this deep stretch.
Seated Stretch – this simple stretch can be completed while sitting at your desk or even on the couch. From a seated position in a chair straighten one leg in front of you with your heel on the floor. Sit up straight then tilt yourself forward. You should feel a great stretch in your hamstrings through holding this position.
These hamstring stretches are only one of the many important muscle groups in your lower body that require stretching. Don’t forget about other areas such as stretching your hips, calves and quad muscles.
Why Stretching Matters
It can be tempting to skip stretching after or in between your workouts. Though stretching can feel great, many people skip it as part of their workout in order to get on with their day. Consider making dedicated time to stretch after your workout a priority. This will assist you in preventing injuries and helping your muscles to feel great every day.
It is important to note that muscle soreness related to physical activity is normal but not always something you should continue to work through. Stretching will not always prevent you from feeling muscle soreness from training. Be mindful that your body needs time to rest and recover between workouts. You should never work through pain and always be mindful of potential injuries as you train.
To assist you with keeping your body healthy and strong we have complied our ultimate guide to injury prevention. See our best tips on keeping safe and feeling strong as you complete your boxing, MMA and other physical activities.
