Appears in642 Workouts*

Forward-Bend Wide Legged

Stretch your hamstrings and back! Improve flexibility with this simple, effective forward bend. Perfect for all levels.

The Forward-Bend Wide Legged mainly works the core and back, with help from the lower back, hamstrings and glutes & hips. You'll need: stretching stick.

Forward-Bend Wide Legged demo video 2
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Required Equipment

Stretching Stick
Stretching Stick

Forward-Bend Wide Legged Muscles Worked

Primary

Abdominals (rectus abdominis); Obliques; Lats (latissimus dorsi)

Secondary

Spinal Erectors (erector spinae); Hamstrings; Glutes (gluteus maximus)

How to do the Forward-Bend Wide Legged

  1. Stand tall with your feet shoulder-width apart.

  2. Reach your hands towards the sky, interlocking your fingers if possible, and extend your arms straight above your head.

  3. Slowly begin to hinge at the hips, folding forward with a straight back.

  4. Continue to lower your torso towards your legs, aiming to bring your chest close to your knees, keeping a slight bend in the knees if necessary.

  5. Allow your arms to follow the motion and try to keep them extended alongside your ears if possible.

  6. Go as far down as your flexibility allows without rounding the lower back. A good stretch should be felt at the back of the thighs, and potentially lower back.

  7. Hold at the lowest position for a comfortable duration, typically between 15-30 seconds, ensuring to breathe deeply and relax into the stretch.

  8. Slowly rise back up to the starting position.

Note: The effectiveness of the stretch may vary based on individual flexibility. If you have any back problems, proceed cautiously and consult a professional before attempting new stretches.

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Forward-Bend Wide Legged FAQs

What muscles does the Forward-Bend Wide Legged work?

The Forward-Bend Wide Legged mainly works the core and back, with help from the lower back, hamstrings and glutes & hips. The main muscles are the rectus abdominis, obliques and latissimus dorsi.

What equipment do you need for the Forward-Bend Wide Legged?

Stretching stick.

What workout day should the Forward-Bend Wide Legged go on?

It belongs on leg day in a push/pull/legs routine.

What are some Forward-Bend Wide Legged variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Armless Prayer Stretch, Bench Back-Bend Stretch, Backward Abdominal Stretch and Basic Toe-Tap.

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