Hamstring flexibility help!

Emikoisabella started this discussion · 2/25/2013

Hi everyone! So, I've always had an issue with hamstring flexibility...it seems like no matter how much stretching I do, I can never fold myself over in a pike position or get all the way to the ground for my side splits. It's strange because I have such great back flexibility and hip flexor flexibility (my middle split is pretty much on the ground), but my hamstrings have always been so stubborn! 😈 Does anyone have any particular streches that really helped your hamstrings become more flexible (besides the standard pike and splits)? Also, is streching my hamstrings every day too much? Maybe I should be streching them every other day?

11 replies

IchigoMewMew · 2/26/2013
I have rubbish hamstrings, well legs in general when it comes to flexibility lol my favourite hamstring stretch is to kneel up with one leg out in front then lean forwards. I think in terms of frequency you can stretch every day but only do deep stretches 2-3 days a week, I usually have one day off everything as well so im fresh for my pole class on mondays
IchigoMewMew · 2/26/2013
You also say your back flexibility is great, is that back bending? If I do a pike stretch I feel it more in my lower back than legs where my forward bend isn't as good x
Emikoisabella · 2/26/2013
Yea, I'm really good at back bends. For me, the tightness of my hamstrings is what limits my pike strech. I guess I just need to be patient and keep streching!
Veena · 2/26/2013
Hi Emnemz! There are many individual stretches for the hamstrings in the lessons also I have a 20 min training for splits routine that would help with tight hamstrings as well. Hamstrings are my trouble area so I understand the frustration, I really have to work at my hamstrings! Here's a link to the side splits routine, https://www.studioveena.com/lessons/view/4e23973c-e724-4d0a-9b2e-79650ac37250 ;
Runemist34 · 2/26/2013
I've had the same issue of tight hamstrings for a looong time! Best thing I can say is this: Don't push too hard! I did, because I really REALLY wanted that pretty pike... and I actually ended up decreasing my flexibility! So, take it slow. You don't ever want to feel pain when you're stretching, just kind of a mildly uncomfortable pull. I often do my hamstrings after I've worked out, or when I'm in the shower! I love my hot showers, and during/right after are good times to go stretching.
monica kay · 2/26/2013
downward dog pose, when done correctly, stretches the hamstrings. : )
Lina Spiralyne · 2/27/2013
@Veena: It comes as a total surprise to me that hamstrings is a problem area for you. You're hiding it well :)!
Veena · 2/27/2013
Yeah Lina it's annoying, just like my abdominals are the first to go when it comes to strength my hamstrings are the first to go when it comes to flexibility when I've had time off. I must be doing something right if you can't tell though I guess!
Dancing Paws · 2/27/2013
so in my GFI study materials, it says that tipping your pelvis forward (butt back), during a hamstring stretch, is the most important factor in hamstring flexibility.
Lyme Lyte · 2/27/2013
Yes, at my silks class we were doing hamstring stretches and my instructor said the same thing.......belly button to the floor.
Veena · 2/27/2013
Lol Lyme. Never thought of bellybutton to the floor. I always say stuck your butt out!