Stretching for the splits

imonmywaydown started this discussion · 4/29/2010

I'm sorry, this doesn't relate directly to pole dancing, but I really want to be able to do the splits to help to finish off my spins etc. The problem is, I can't even get close to doing the splits. I know there are stretches to help increase flexibility and help you to eventually do the splits, but I can't even get close enough to do those properly - that's how far off I am 🙄 I'm just not flexible. I was wondering... is it possible to go from not even close to actually being able to do the splits one day if I keep up with the stretches? I'm 20 and don't think I've ever been able to do them. I wish I could go back to my childhood and nag my parents to let me do gymnastics *sigh*

10 replies

chemgoddess1 · 4/29/2010
I know that you are new here. There are a few threads going reagrding this. I think the one that sums it up the best is this one: Resistance Stretching There is also a splits progress thread in the pics and vids forum. Oh...and WELCOME!!!
azriel · 4/29/2010
I think it's possible for almost anyone. I started poling at 29 & had barely ever stretched before in my life.. i was definitely a couple feet off the ground when getting a split-stretch position. I still don't have them, but my flexibility has increased DRAMATICALLY ever since i started stretching. I don't stretch as often as i should, but after 1.5 years i am now getting pretty close to attaining them. I think that you being only 20, you'll be able to see great results if you stick to a good stretching routine (hopefully you'll be more consistent than i am). It's a lot of hard work, & definitely time consuming, but it's so worth it!! 🥂 One thing to remember, is that consistency is more important than intensity!
imonmywaydown · 4/29/2010
Thanks for the link chemgoddess :) I'll have a look now. And thanks for the advice azriel. I suppose, like you said, it's good to keep stretching anyway as it will help with my general flexibility. Well done on almost being there too! :D must be great knowing that all the hard work (and pain!) is paying off. I gave up stretching when I moved into this flat because my carpet's like sandpaper, but as soon as I get some floor mats I'm going to start again, this time with perseverance. Well, I say that now... :P One thing to remember, is that consistency is more important than intensity! Yeah, you're right. I think this is important actually. I damaged a tendon in my foot last year just by walking so I'm kind of paranoid about over-stretching a tendon now when trying to stretch for the splits, but I think as long as I focus on being consistent with the stretches instead of trying to practically dislocate my legs to get there then I should make progress! Slow progress, but progress all the same :)
Poleluver · 5/6/2010
splits definately have to do with pole dancing. I wantthem too! Never been able to do it but I am the most flexable I've been.
Layla Duvay · 7/27/2010
I am trying to get my centre or box splits, but everything I've tried has had limited success. I need more leverage to get my legs open that way *insert joke here*! Joni1 has an awesome machine that could do it, but the shipping=the cost of the thing which would make it $300!!! I this video on youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GAeuplQdyZM which teaches you how to make a leg stretcher out of crutches. It works!!! 🤸 I just did it and am getting a really good stretch! ☀️ Now let's see how long it takes to get!!!!
PennyGirl · 7/28/2010
which teaches you how to make a leg stretcher out of crutches. It works!!! 🤸 I just did it and am getting a really good stretch! " Wow I just watched the vid, that's really super cool I wanna do that too. I can get close to the ground with myr right leg in front, but the left leg is really PAHthetic! I can't get a middle split at all, all I got there is a sorry looking V. I'm gonna try this! thanks so very much..watch out sexy splits, here I come! 🫡
NerdasaurusJess · 7/28/2010
I am in the same boat. I am really hindered in my pole dancing right now because of my flexibility, or lack there of. In highschool I could not do a foward fold and touch past my knees. I can now stand on the palm of my hands with my knees straight. I am still not to a split yet though . I have been attending yoga when I can and according to my instructor flexibility is the one thing everyone can gain no matter their age and can keep through age. I believe that statement, because of my previous one. Hell look at the people in india. Good luck on your split quest 🫡
hellokitty · 7/28/2010
oh I'm soooo with you! I started stretching 5 months ago and I was far away from doing splits. I've never been the sporty type and I never worked out before I started pole dancing. I could'nt lean forward when I was sitting in a V-leg position. I couldn't do the standard split. I couldn't do a backbend. Now after 5 months (and stretching nearly every day), I can touch the floor with my forehead when sitting in a V position. I can do the standard split most of the times and I can do a backbend from a standing position. My feet can touch my head from behind. But I have to say that I do not like stretching that I have to force myself to do it. you need so much time and it hurts sooooo much! I always have the feeling that I am not progressing and that it is taking forever. But taking pictures helps me to realizes what I have accomplished! Just force yourself to stretch regularly and stay in the stretching position for at least 30 seconds! Good Luck! 👍
sosagely · 7/28/2010
Come join us in the "bendy buddies" chat room on thursday nights! We share stretches and tips and basically just give eachother lots of encouragement! 5:30 pacific 6:30 mountain 7:30 central/standard 8:30 Eastern ☀️
hellokitty · 7/28/2010
and european?