Appears in642 Workouts*

Squat to Straddle

Improve flexibility with Squat to Straddle! Stretch your inner thighs & hips with this simple, effective exercise. Do it anywhere!

The Squat to Straddle mainly works the glutes & hips and quads, with help from the hamstrings and calves / shins. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.

Squat to Straddle demo video 2
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Squat to Straddle Muscles Worked

Primary

Glutes (gluteus maximus); Quads (quadriceps femoris)

Secondary

Hamstrings; Lower Calf (soleus)

How to do the Squat to Straddle

  1. Starting Position:

    • Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart.

    • Keep your toes pointing slightly outward.

  2. Squat Down:

    • Bend your knees and lower your body into a squat position.

    • Keep your heels flat on the ground.

    • Try to bring your thighs as close to parallel to the ground as possible.

    • Your torso should be upright, and your arms can be placed in front of you or between your legs.

  3. Transition to Straddle:

    • From the squat position, gradually extend your legs out to the sides into a straddle position.

    • Keep your knees slightly bent and maintain a straight back.

    • Position your feet wider than your shoulders, ensuring comfort.

  4. Hold the Stretch:

    • Allow your body to relax into the straddle while keeping your back straight.

    • You can place your hands on your hips or reach forward towards your feet for a deeper stretch.

    • Hold this position for a few breaths, feeling the stretch in your inner thighs and hips.

  5. Return to Squat:

    • To come out of the stretch, gently bring your legs back together into the squat position.

    • Always ensure your knees do not extend past your toes as you squat.

  6. Repeat as Necessary:

    • You can perform this stretch several times, repeating the sequence to increase flexibility and comfort.

Tips:

  • Keep your core engaged throughout the movement to support your back.

  • If you feel any discomfort in your knees or hips, adjust your position or stop the exercise.

  • Breathe deeply and relax your body as you stretch.

Squat to Straddle FAQs

What muscles does the Squat to Straddle work?

The Squat to Straddle mainly works the glutes & hips and quads, with help from the hamstrings and calves / shins. The main muscles are the gluteus maximus and quadriceps femoris.

What equipment do you need for the Squat to Straddle?

None. The Squat to Straddle is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.

What workout day should the Squat to Straddle go on?

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

What are some Squat to Straddle variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Chest to Split Wall Middle, Head-To-Floor Deep-Squat, Turn Deep-Squat and Froggy Squat into Forward Fold.

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