lazarenka started this discussion ·
I CAN'T DO THE SPLITS!!! I have worked on it for SO many weeks.... Does ANYBODY have ANY tip??? ANYBODY out there who is not even remotely naturally flexible that can give me a ray of sunshine?!
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Hey Lazarenka! I was wondering if you are taking progress pics? If so, it would be super neat to see some of them. I am not naturally flexible at all. I've been working on stretching since about Feb. I've def improved a lot over the last few months, surprisingly so since I hardly stretch---I'm really trying to get into the routine of it. I know for me, I have to be really warmed up before stretching and before getting a decent stretch. What sort of warm up do you do before stretching? I do squats, pole kicks, etc and really get my legs warmed up before attempting a split stretch. I also try to hold my stretches for at least a minute or so, just depending on the stretch. I've also found that stretching with a friend whether in person, or via skype can be useful. Also, taking pics every time you stretch is very very handy! It will show you even the smallest progress. Just remember, everyone's body is different, so it may take you a little longer to achieve your goal. I know it can be frustrating. Can't wait to hear from you.. -Vita
Veena ·
Tons of tips in the lessons too! 😊😊
Hey there! I am solidly NOT flexible, and have actually damaged my hamstrings trying SO hard to stretch them! We actually have another thread here on the forum for us to post progress pictures, to cheer each other on, and to share tips and tricks and ideas, what works for us and what doesn't. It's right here: https://www.studioveena.com/forums/view/54888e4d-b880-4691-b910-32640a9aa0eb#bottom The splits can take YEARS. Alethea Austin talks about her own journey to the splits- I think she said three or five years for her? For some, very lucky, other people, it only takes months. But, I think those people are few and far between, and most of us have to take our time (seriously, take that time!), be patient, gentle, and stretch when we are seriously very warm, and listen to our bodies carefully. An injury from stretching is NOT FUN. I was out for about six months straight from my hamstrings, and that was just a few attempts at stretching too far when I wasn't listening to my body.
The splits take a long time to get for most people, sometimes even years, so a few weeks just isn't enough time for people who don't have that extra flexibility. Try holding your stretches for at least 30 seconds, tense up all your muscles for a bit then relax deeper into the stretch. I try to stretch while watching telly so I don't focus on counting down the seconds as I find I tense up trying to wait it out, whereas watching telly takes my mind off any discomfort. Also, listen to your body discomfort is normal, sharp pain is not.
to get splits you will need to find a safe, well explained program of stretching and you need to do it consistently. I started with the stretching routines here on StudioVeena. they are safe and well explained and thorough. very beneficial to those who are new to stretching. as I progressed I supplemented her routines with the fit and bendy dvds. I have been working on flexibility about 3 times a week for about a year and 10months. I had my splits at 10months, tore my hamstring and had to take several months off and start over again. get a good program going because you dont want to tear your muscles and I will tell you first hand it was very easy to do. it sucked. bad. and it could have even been more devastating than it was. i was lucky. I really cant think of a better, safer program for you to work on besides the routines Veena has. I have tried all the dvd's you can think of. they are mostly horrible unless you are experienced in flexibility. Consistency, good form, and patience will get you splits. I was not flexible when I started. couldnt touch my toes. couldnt lay on my back and even lift my leg to a 90 degree angle. couldnt sit in a straddle at all! I was terribly unflexible. it is possible for you to get splits. dont get too hung up on the final outcome. just enjoy all the little baby steps of progress you achieve on the way and it will make this very fulfilling for you. someone suggested pics. yes!!! it will make you happy to see your progress even though you are not fully into your splits yet. just seeing the progress lets you know you are doing it right and you are one your way. dont stretch unless your body is very warm. do cardio or something first. you want to be sweating before you start stretching for splits. dont cheat this part. it is vital. also, you may not want to work on flexibility everyday. I have found that less is more. 3 times a week max for me. everyone is different. some can do this 6times a week and be okay. most need to start 2-3 times a week and see how their body handles it. a day between sessions is good. it lets your muscles heal a little bit before stressing them out too much. I am not the most flexible person in the world but I have made more progress than i ever imagined. you can look at my pics and see. I am now in the beginning stages of training contortion. something I never even dreamed possible.
