Appears in642 Workouts*

Half Happy Baby Stretch

Gentle hip opener! The Half Happy Baby Stretch eases tension in your lower back and groin. Relax and release with this simple pose.

The Half Happy Baby Stretch mainly works the core, with help from the glutes & hips. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.

Ms. Grey
JustGains_XX
@JustGains_XX

Optional Equipment

Yoga Mat
Yoga Mat

Half Happy Baby Stretch Muscles Worked

Primary

Abdominals (rectus abdominis); Obliques

Secondary

Hip Flexor (iliopsoas); Glutes (gluteus maximus)

How to do the Half Happy Baby Stretch

  1. Starting Position:

    • Lie on your back on a comfortable surface, such as a yoga mat or soft carpet.

    • Keep your legs extended straight out in front of you and arms resting at your sides.

  2. Bend Your Knees:

    • Slowly bend your knees and bring them towards your chest.

    • Your feet should remain flat on the ground as you do this.

  3. Grab Your Feet:

    • Once your knees are drawn in, reach for the outer edges of your feet with your hands.

    • Ensure your shoulders are relaxed and not hunching up towards your ears.

  4. Position Your Legs:

    • Keep your knees bent and widen them slightly, allowing your thighs to gently fall open to the sides.

    • Your feet should be approximately shoulder-width apart, and your feet should be flexed.

  5. Gentle Pull:

    • If comfortable, gently pull your feet with your hands to deepen the stretch.

    • Maintain a relaxed upper body and keep your head resting on the ground.

  6. Hold the Stretch:

    • Hold this position for 20 to 30 seconds, breathing deeply and relaxing into the stretch.

    • Focus on the feelings in your hips and lower back.

  7. Release:

    • To come out of the stretch, slowly release your feet and bring your knees back to your chest.

    • Then, gently lower your feet back to the ground.

  8. Repeat:

    • You can repeat this stretch 2 to 3 times, focusing on relaxing and breathing deeply each time.

Tips:

  • Always listen to your body. Don’t force any movements or stretches.

  • If you feel any pain, stop and modify the position as needed.

Half Happy Baby Stretch FAQs

What muscles does the Half Happy Baby Stretch work?

The Half Happy Baby Stretch mainly works the core, with help from the glutes & hips. The main muscles are the rectus abdominis and obliques.

What equipment do you need for the Half Happy Baby Stretch?

None. The Half Happy Baby Stretch is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.

What are some Half Happy Baby Stretch variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Dynamic Half Child Pose, Easy Pose, Froggy Pose Bolster and Half Lotus Pulse.

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