Appears in642 Workouts*

Seated Single-Leg Hamstring Reach Stretch

The Seated Single-Leg Hamstring Reach Stretch mainly works the hamstrings and core, with help from the lower back. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.

Jessica Bickling
Jessica Bickling
@Jessica Bickling

Optional Equipment

Yoga Mat
Yoga Mat

Seated Single-Leg Hamstring Reach Stretch Muscles Worked

Primary

Hamstrings; Obliques

Secondary

Spinal Erectors (erector spinae)

How to do the Seated Single-Leg Hamstring Reach Stretch

Setup

Sit on the mat with one leg extended straight and the other leg bent, placing the sole of the bent foot against the inner thigh of the extended leg.

Movement

  1. Inhale while sitting tall to engage your core.

  2. Exhale as you extend the arm on the same side as the extended leg toward your toes, while reaching the opposite arm overhead toward those same toes, creating a deep side bend.

  3. Aim to keep your chest open and your sitting bones firmly on the mat.

  4. Reach as far as comfortable to feel a stretch along the side of the torso and the back of the extended leg.

  5. Hold the position for the desired duration before switching sides.

Seated Single-Leg Hamstring Reach Stretch FAQs

What muscles does the Seated Single-Leg Hamstring Reach Stretch work?

The Seated Single-Leg Hamstring Reach Stretch mainly works the hamstrings and core, with help from the lower back. The main muscles are the hamstrings and obliques.

What equipment do you need for the Seated Single-Leg Hamstring Reach Stretch?

None. The Seated Single-Leg Hamstring Reach Stretch is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.

What workout day should the Seated Single-Leg Hamstring Reach Stretch go on?

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

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